Shows
Political Business - London DecidesStarmer Under Pressure, The King Charms DC & Election Week BeginsOne week to go!Parliament has prorogued, pressure is mounting on Keir Starmer, and the countdown to election day is on. In this week’s episode of Political Business, Nathan and Kevin break down a difficult week for the government — and what it means as MPs leave Westminster to campaign.From growing unrest inside the Labour Party to the King’s high-profile visit to the United States, we explore the contrast between domestic political instability and strong international diplomacy.With just one week to go until the elections, we also look a...
2026-04-3024 min
True LondonThe Lib Dem challenge in Southwark & elsewhereThis year's local elections in London are the most unpredictable for years and likely to produce changes in the political control of most of the capital's 32 boroughs. The Liberal Democrats have had less publicity than all the other parties, yet the have good grounds for thinking they will emerge stronger after 7 May. They may not win a majority on Labour-run Southwark Council but hope to win a substantial numbers of seats, perhaps the largest number, in a possible hung council. The leader of the Lib Dem group, Victor Chamberlain, talked about their local campaign on the...
2026-04-3019 minPolitical Business - London DecidesLondon Elections 2026: Green Surge, Reform Wave, or Labour Hold? | London DecidesThe 2026 London Borough elections are around the corner, and the political landscape is more fragmented than ever. In this special edition of Political Business, Nathan and Kevin are joined by London "Supremo" Dave Hill (OnLondon) and elections expert Lewis Baston (OnLondon) to dissect the 387-page "London Decides" guide.From the potential "Green Wave" in Hackney and Lambeth to the "Reform Wave" in the outer boroughs like Bexley and Havering, we break down why this election is about more than just a "doughnut" strategy.In this episode, we cover:The Fragmentation of the...
2026-04-2440 minPolitical Business - London DecidesFrom NYC to London: Is the "Mamdani Effect" Coming for British Politics?Are the London local elections about to redraw the political map? We’re reporting live from New York City to explore a fascinating parallel: the first 100 days of Mayor Zohran Mamdani and what his "street politics" style means for the UK Labour Party and the Green Party.In this special episode of Political Business, Kevin McKeever and Nathan Parsad-Wyatt discuss their trip to NYC to meet with American investors and political players. They dive deep into the "Mamdani Effect" - a mix of TikTok-savvy communication, "pothole politics," and an adversarial relationship with big business - and an...
2026-04-1620 minPolitical Business - London DecidesLondon Decides 2026, plus Iran’s Two-Week Ceasefire and Starmer’s “Good War”On today's episode of Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt, Kevin McKeever officially launch London Decides, our partnership with OnLondon.co.uk. This is the definitive political guide to all 32 London boroughs, featuring expert insights from Dave Hill and Lewis Baston. The capital is truly in an era of multi-party politics and London Decides will cover it all!From "Silent Labour Voters" to the Green Party’s "hubris," and the impact of independent candidates, Kevin and Nathan look ahead at some of the storylines that could shape the election. Sign up for early access to London Decides at: ht...
2026-04-0826 min
Political Business - London DecidesWelcome to London Decides, from Political BusinessOn 7 May, every London borough votes. And this election is unlike any we've seen before. We have well and truly arrived in the era of multi-party politics. Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, the Greens, Reform, and various shades of independents, all in play in some way across the nation's capital.Most of the analysis out there isn't reflecting the complexity of what's actually happening across the boroughs. That's what London Decides is for.To make sense of it, we've teamed up with OnLondon, bringing together Dave Hill, award-winning founder and editor of...
2026-04-0701 minPolitical Business - London DecidesIs Ed Miliband Actually Running the Country?The UK economy is at a breaking point as the OECD downgrades growth forecasts for 2026. In this episode, we dive into the "big headaches" facing the Chancellor, the escalating energy crisis fueled by Middle East tensions, and the internal power struggle between Number 10 and Ed Miliband’s "Full-Brand Milibandism."Plus, we break down the government's massive New Towns announcement: where are the 7 new sites, and will they actually solve the housing crisis before the May elections?***To find out more about London Decides, click https://londondecides.lowickhedry.com/The de...
2026-03-2625 minPolitical Business - London DecidesEnergy Price Shock & London’s New Housing StrategyIn this episode of Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever discuss a volatile week for the UK. From the 150% surge in gas prices following Middle East tensions to the internal "soft-left" revolt within the Labour Party, we break down what this means for the upcoming May elections.We also dive deep into the newly announced New Homes Accelerator and Atlas program. We give essential updates for anyone in the London housing and development sector.Key Topics Covered:The Energy Crunch: Why UK gas prices soared 150% and what the Bank of England’s...
2026-03-2021 minPolitical Business - London DecidesLive from MIPIM 2026: Is London Still the World’s Safe Haven?We’re live from the International Property Conference (MIPIM) in Cannes to discuss why global capital is flocking to London despite massive geopolitical uncertainty.In this special episode of Political Business, we consider the intersection of international conflict, UK defence preparedness, and the "Golden Age" of the Square Mile.We dive deep into the City of London’s "Golden Age" with two exclusive interviews:1. Chris Hayward (Policy Chair, City of London Corporation) on the "concierge service" for global investors and the challenge of viability.2. Tom Sleigh (Planning & Transportation Chair) on wh...
2026-03-1234 minPolitical Business - London DecidesWhy Keir Starmer is Defying Donald Trump on the Middle EastFrom the Middle East conflict to the streets of London, the political landscape is shifting.In this episode of Political Business, Nathan and Kevin talk through a historic week. We examine Keir Starmer’s "legalistic" defiance of Donald Trump regarding Middle East strikes and why the Prime Minister is avoiding a "forever war."We also break down the shock by-election results in Gorton and Denton. Has Labour lost its grip on the left to the Greens? Finally, we dive into the "labor-on-labor" friction within the new Oxford St...
2026-03-0426 minPolitical Business - London Decides3-Way Split! Gorton & Denton By-Election & The Fall of Global CounselTomorrow, the voters of Gorton and Denton head to the polls. On paper, it’s a safe Labour seat. In reality? It’s a "pollster’s nightmare" and a three-way fight that could redefine Keir Starmer’s leadership.In this week’s episode of Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever dive into a week of high-stakes political maneuvering and industry-shaking news.What we’re unpacking:📍 The By-Election Briefing Wars: Why are Labour, the Greens, and Reform all claiming they can win? We look at the "Andy Burnham factor" and why the ground game...
2026-02-2523 minPolitical Business - London DecidesIs Reform UK Now a Government in Waiting? Jenrick’s Move & The Housing CollapseCan Reform UK bridge the "credibility gap"? In this week's episode of Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever dive into the seismic shifts occurring during the Westminster recess. We analyse the appointment of Robert Jenrick as Reform UK’s Shadow Chancellor (Treasury Spokesperson) and what it means for the party's attempt to shed its "protest movement" image.We also break down the government’s major U-turn on delaying 30 local elections - a massive legal and political win for Nigel Farage - and the grim reality of London’s housing starts falling by over 7...
2026-02-1725 minPolitical Business - London DecidesStarmer on Borrowed Time as Mandelson Scandal Rocks No.10Today's episode of Political Business looks into the recent political turmoil in Westminster, focusing on the implications for the Labour Party and its leadership under Keir Starmer. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by the Prime Minister, the dynamics within the Labour Party, and the public's perception of political stability. Key themes include the impact of recent scandals, the role of gender in leadership positions, and the future policy direction of the Labour Party as it navigates a changing political landscape.***To find out more about London Decides, click https://lo...
2026-02-1226 minPolitical Business - London DecidesPeter Mandelson, the Gorton and Denton By-election & Britain's High StreetsThis week on Political Business, we break down one of the most turbulent weeks in UK politics.We examine the fast-moving story surrounding Peter Mandelson, the Epstein files, and allegations of historic cabinet leaks — and what this means for Keir Starmer, Number 10, and Labour’s judgement in government.We also analyse the Gorton and Denton by-election campaign so far, discussingLabour’s ground operation in Greater ManchesterReform’s decision to stand Matt GoodwinThe Green Party’s campaign, and what message they might have for votersFinally, we turn to policy, di...
2026-02-0421 minPolitical Business - London DecidesStarmer in China, Labour In-fighting & The Pub Tax U-TurnThis week on Political Business, Kevin and Nathan break down the political decisions shaping the UK business climate right now.🔹 Keir Starmer’s trade delegation to China — the first UK PM visit in 8 years. Is Britain charting a new economic path between the US and China? What does this mean for British exporters, investors and global trade strategy?🔹 Andy Burnham blocked from returning to Parliament — and what it reveals about Labour leadership tensions, party control, and the post-election future of Keir Starmer.🔹 Conservative defections to Reform UK — why the Tory coalition is frac...
2026-01-2820 minPolitical Business - London DecidesTrump's Greenland Threats and London's ElectionsIn this episode of Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever break down Donald Trump’s explosive comments on Greenland as he heads to the World Economic Forum in Davos — and what this new era of muscular US foreign policy means for the UK economy, NATO allies, and global trade.We explore:Trump’s tariff threats and the real risk to UK growthWhat Davos 2026 reveals about power, business, and geopoliticsThe impact on British industries like automotive manufacturing and pharmaceuticalsWhether the UK can survive between the US and the EUGrowing fractures on the UK right: Reform vs Con...
2026-01-2126 minPolitical Business - London DecidesKemi Badenoch Sacks Robert Jenrick - He Defects to ReformBreaking political news kicks off Political Business’ first podcast of 2026 as Kemi Badenoch sacks Robert Jenrick from the Conservative shadow cabinet, amid claims he was planning a defection to Reform UK.In this episode, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever unpack:Why Jenrick was seen as a leadership threat to BadenochWhether Reform UK benefits from ex-Tory defectorsThe political theatre behind the timing of the sackingWhat this tells us about the state of the Conservative PartyThe conversation then turns to...
2026-01-1525 minPolitical Business - London Decides2025 UK Politics: Winners, Losers & What Happens Next in 20262025 has been one of the most turbulent years in modern UK politics. In this end-of-year special episode, we look back at the key political moments of 2025, the leaders who rose and fell, and what lies ahead in 2026.From Keir Starmer’s challenges in Number 10, the bungled handling of Labour rebellions, and the growing conversation about Labour leadership succession, to the rise of Reform UK and the Greens, this episode explores how British politics is fragmenting into a true multi-party system.We discuss:Labour’s post-election wobble and internal rebellionsWes Streeting’s growing influe...
2025-12-1936 minPolitical Business - London DecidesReform's Peak Support and Angela Rayner ReturnsTwo weeks on from Rachel Reeves’ first budget, the headlines have moved on — but the politics definitely hasn’t. In this episode of Political Business, Kevin and Nathan unpack the shifting dynamics inside Labour and the Conservatives as both parties prepare for a turbulent 2026 election cycle.We break down:🔴 Labour’s internal anxiety despite a “successful” budget🔴 Why Treasury insiders think the politics of the budget are done🔴 Angela Rayner’s dramatic return to the Commons — and what it really means🔴 The truth behind the “non-existent” Labour leadership contest🔴 Starmer’s strate...
2025-12-1022 minPolitical Business - London DecidesIs Rachel Reeves Safe? Farage’s Tory-Deal & The Greens Coming for LondonOne week after Rachel Reeves delivered Labour's Budget, the polls suggest 48% of people consider it a “bad budget.” In today’s episode of Political Business, Nathan and Kevin dissect the political fallout inside the Labour Party, the economics behind Reeves’ choices, and whether Keir Starmer’s position is as safe as it looks.We also break down reports that Nigel Farage has privately told donors he expects a Reform UK–Conservative deal at the next general election — despite publicly denying it. What would a reform–Tory pact mean for 2029?Finally, we analyse the rapidly shifting London political...
2025-12-0429 minPolitical Business - London DecidesRachel Reeves’ Budget: Winners, Losers & What Happens NextRachel Reeves has delivered her second Budget — and it’s one of the most politically significant moments of Labour’s new government. In this episode, we break down every major measure, from the 24 tax rises to the abolition of the two-child benefit cap, the mansion tax, frozen income tax thresholds, and the new pay-per-mile charge for EVs.We analyse:How Labour MPs reacted in the chamberWhat the markets think (and whether that lasts)Whether this is a politically risky “tax to fund welfare” momentHow the public will respondGrowth strategy concerns… and the lack of a long-term economic sto...
2025-11-2727 minPolitical Business - London DecidesTax Rises, Market Nerves, Labour Factions & Planning Power ShiftThe budget is one week away — and speculation inside government is spiralling. In this episode, we break down:🔹 Rachel Reeves’ abandoned income tax rise 🔹 Treasury leaks and “smorgasbord” tax increases 🔹 Market reaction & OBR forecast surprises 🔹 Why local authorities may lose planning powers 🔹 The real factions organising inside Labour 🔹 Whether Keir Starmer can survive as leader 🔹 Steve Reed’s radical changes to housing and planning 🔹 The 1.5 million homes target — and whether government can hit itWe also unpack who holds real power inside the Labour Party today: the o...
2025-11-1929 minPolitical Business - London Decides“I’ll Fight On”: Can Keir Starmer Survive as PM?Is Sir Keir Starmer facing a real leadership challenge — or just Westminster gossip gone wild? In this episode of Political Business, hosts Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever go inside the explosive week that’s rocking Downing Street.After Number 10’s extraordinary move to brief against Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Starmer’s inner circle is scrambling to project unity. But with rumours swirling around Angela Rayner, Shabana Mahmood, and even Ed Miliband, the question is whether the Labour leader can hold his Cabinet — and his authority — together.We unpack the real political strategy behind the chaos:Why Downin...
2025-11-1231 min
Grow PlacesGP 52: UK Politics, Housing, Growth: with Kevin McKeever of Lowick GroupIn this episode, Tom Larsson is joined by Kevin McKeever, Managing Director of Lowick Group, a leading strategic communications and public affairs consultancy working at the intersection of development, politics, and community. Kevin also recently co-founded Hedry, a cross-party consultancy focused on building resilience in the built environment.This wide-ranging and honest conversation unpacks the urgent challenges facing the UK’s housing and planning system, from viability and delivery to trust and political will. Drawing on decades of experience in local government, Westminster, and large-scale regeneration, Kevin provides sharp insights into the systemic issues stalling progress and wh...
2025-11-1140 minPolitical Business - London DecidesRachel Reeves’ Tough Budget Choices, Farage’s Tax U-Turn & London’s Oxford Street Shake-UpIn this episode of Political Business, hosts Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever unpack a week dominated by economic speeches and shifting political strategies.📊 Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, has set the scene for what’s being called “the most significant Budget in a generation.” With a £40 billion gap to fill, Reeves is preparing the public for tax rises across all demographics — a politically risky move that could breach Labour’s key 2024 manifesto pledges. Nathan and Kevin explore how the Treasury’s new “no surprises” communications strategy is designed to reassure markets while managing expectations across Westminster.💷 Meanwhile, Nigel Farage...
2025-11-0525 minPolitical Business - London DecidesLabour’s Nightmare Poll & London Housing Shake-Up ExplainedLabour has fallen to its lowest ever level of support in a new YouGov poll — just 17%. The Green Party, under new leader Zack Polanski, has now overtaken the Liberal Democrats.In this week’s Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever break down what the numbers really mean for the Labour government, the opposition, and the shape of politics in 2025.We also unpack the government’s emergency intervention in London’s housing crisis, cutting affordable housing requirements to kick-start development — and debate whether this move helps or hurts Labour ahead of next May’s local elections.
2025-10-2928 minPolitical Business - London DecidesReeves Blames Brexit? Inside Labour’s Economic GambleThe UK government’s borrowing has hit record levels — £99.8 billion in just six months — while inflation holds steady at 3.8%. With the Budget looming, Rachel Reeves is trying to frame the economic challenge by blaming Brexit and promising a £6 billion blitz on red tape.In this episode, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin unpack the numbers, the politics, and the strategy: – Why borrowing is spiralling — and what it means for the Treasury. – Whether Reeves’ “Brexit blame” approach can work politically. – The real impact of the West Midlands Investment Summit. – What the Caerphilly by-election t...
2025-10-2226 minPolitical Business - London DecidesWhat Business Needs to Know About Starmer’s Policy Shake-Up and the London Housing CrisisPolitical Business with Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever breaks down this week’s biggest political and business stories — from Westminster to the housing market.This episode covers:Why neither Labour nor the Conservatives got a conference bounce.Major changes inside Number 10 Downing Street — is this a “grown-ups back in charge” moment for Keir Starmer?A deep dive into London’s housing crisis as new Molior data shows housing starts collapsing.The latest planning reforms, Treasury moves, and whether Rachel Reeves can deliver growth.And what Reform UK’s rise in by-elections means for both Labour and the Conservati...
2025-10-1526 minPolitical Business - London DecidesInside Tory Conference: Leadership Tension, Reform Talks & Business ResetIn this week’s Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt reports from Manchester as the Conservative Party Conference 2025 wraps up - and it’s not all rosy for Kemi Badenoch.With polling sliding into the high teens and Robert Jenrick waiting in the wings, is her leadership already on borrowed time? Nathan and Kevin McKeever break down:🔥 Kemi Badenoch’s leadership challenge — has she bought time or lost control?🤝 Reform UK’s growing power — could there be a deal or even a merger on the right?💼 Tories’ new pitch to business — can they reclaim economic credibility from...
2025-10-0825 minPolitical Business - London DecidesInside Labour Conference: Budget, Burnham & Business RisksIn this episode of Political Business, Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever bring you exclusive insights direct from the Labour Party Conference 2025 in Liverpool.We unpack:What Keir Starmer’s landmark speech means for Labour’s future.Whether Andy Burnham’s influence has peaked after clashing with the Cabinet.The Deputy Leadership race and why it failed to make waves.Why the upcoming budget is the real battleground for Labour, with tax rises, VAT expansion, and capital gains reforms on the horizon.Steve Reed’s “Build, Baby, Build” housing push – but can Labour really deliver?Exclusive reactions from London co...
2025-10-0120 minPolitical Business - London DecidesWelcome to Political BusinessAt Lowick Hedry, we help our clients make sense of a complex world - and get things done. Whether it’s shaping policy, delivering major projects or managing your reputation, we bring together deep experience and fresh thinking to get results that matter. Now, you hear it every week on our podcast. Subscribe on Apple, on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts - and we’ll drop into your feed every week.Join Nathan Parsad-Wyatt and Kevin McKeever every week as they consider politics, policies and the realities for business.***To...
2025-09-3003 min