Shows
Political CurrencyEMQs: How to give a GREAT conference speechRachel Reeves takes to the Labour party conference stage today, but hopefully not before she has chance to listen to Ed Balls and George Osborne’s sage advice on how to give a great conference speech. We take a stroll down memory lane and reflect on some of the most rousing speeches in British party conference political history – from the funny to the formative. Which MPs have tattoos? Ed and George list out the candidates most likely, bu have either of them got a decorative dolphin or butterfly somewhere discreet?!And does anyone in th...
2024-09-2338 min
Political CurrencyStarmer’s big Sue Gray problemAs Labour feels the heat over Keir Starmer’s freebies scandal, there's a sense of glee in Tory party circles now the "holier-than-thou" party has something of a mess to clean up. Ed Balls and George Osborne mull how the government can reset their image, especially now the Sue Gray pay row is also threatening to rain on Starmer's conference parade ....Across the benches they reflect on the celebratory Liberal Democrat conference and whether the party has finally gotten over Nick Clegg. Could they be a thorn in the side for Labour and the Conservatives?
2024-09-1954 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Media spin, middle classes and memories of conferences pastAre eloquent middle class people hogging valuable public service resources? Ed Balls and George Osborne debate the case for co-payments to ease the burden. How can both Ed and George be correct on their analyses of the 2010 financial situation? And why do politicians continue to trot out their media spin lines when it’s clear to everyone that they’re not answering the question?Plus, Ed and George share their favourite conference memories as party conferences get underway. You could have been listening to this episode of EMQs early and ad-fr...
2024-09-1628 minPolitical CurrencyCan Starmer really fix the NHS?The NHS must “reform or die”, says Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Is he channelling his “inner Tony Blair” in a gutsy move on our health service or is this another policy which will end in controversy, much like the winter fuel allowance or early prison releases? Across the pond, the US Presidential TV debate gave Kamala Harris an edge as she took on Donald Trump for the first time. But perhaps even more of a win was Taylor Swift’s endorsement, which soon followed. But do celebrity supporters make any real difference in politics? And, back...
2024-09-1252 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Should you pay if you miss an NHS appointment?Booking an appointment with your GP can feel harder than getting your hands on Oasis tickets. So should those who miss their slots be made to pay? Would it create a barrier to entry for vulnerable people in society, or could it open the door to millions more people who are sick of getting stuck in the queue?Ed and George also bring you inside the world of becoming an MP and they top up their summer reading list with some international big-hitters. Plus - now back from holiday - Ed reveals whether he c...
2024-09-0935 minPolitical CurrencyWill Rachel Reeves be forced to U-turn on winter fuel payments?Ed and George are reunited to mull over whether Rachel Reeves should make a U-turn on the winter fuel payment furore. Is there an "escape route" she can take?And they examine the government’s decision to suspend some arms shipments to Israel. Was it really “a legal decision, not a policy decision”, as the PM has claimed?Finally, we ask whether central bankers deserve the credit for falling inflation – or if they simply got lucky. And Ed and George issue a mea culpa for some slightly inaccurate predictions about the Tory leadership contest...
2024-09-0551 min
Political CurrencySummer EMQs: Where are all the great parliamentary orators?Where are all the great parliamentary speakers like Gordon Brown, Robin Cook, and William Hague? Ed Balls and George Osborne reflect on fond memories within the chambers like Cook’s resignation. Will the Tory leadership contest bring in any new contenders?Plus, what determines seating order in commons? Can live fact checking during PMQs work? What actually is a three line whip? And how risky is it to defy one? Please keep sending us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukYou could have been listening to this episode of EMQ...
2024-09-0231 minPolitical CurrencyOsbornomics, Oasis, and OppositionThe summer holidays are over, if Keir Starmer’s speech this week was anything to go by. Is he stepping into Osbornomics strike two? Whilst Ed Balls is still on holiday, George Osborne is joined by Chief Executive of Labour Together, Jonathan Ashworth, to reveal what’s going on behind the scenes as the government returns to Westminster. In a quick turnaround, Starmer was next spotted in Germany, resetting relations in Europe. Is there merit to seeking bilateral relations with EU countries? Will this lead to growth and prosperity? And will it appease Leave voters who swung...
2024-08-2959 min
Rising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Ludivine Munos on life as a Paralympian, working for Paris 2024 and preparing Paris for a home GamesTwenty eight years on from representing France at the Atlanta Paralympics, Ludivine Munos (nee Loiseau) is giving her all to ensure the first Paralympics ever to take place in her country is a huge success.One of France’s most decorated Paralympic athletes, Ludivine is bringing the skill and determination she displayed in the pool to her role as a senior member of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee. She talks to Matt “The Armless Archer” Stutzman and Olympic legend Michael Johnson about the work that goes into delivering a Paralympic Games, even providing tips for the LA 2028 Organi...
2024-08-2831 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Lauren Steadman on switching sports, taking breaks and the psychology of elite athletesLauren Steadman was just 15 years old when she first competed as a para swimmer at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics; but despite her talent and dedication she went home empty handed. An experience she repeated in London in 2012. Lauren talks to fellow Paralympian Matt Stutzman and legendary Olympian Michael Johnson about her decision to switch to Para Triathlon and the triumph that soon followed. But what happens to an athlete once they win the Paralympic gold medal they’ve worked all their lives to achieve? Lauren explains why she needed to step away from competing for a bit and...
2024-08-2732 min
Political CurrencySummer EMQs: Who really runs the country?Are the civil service the real brains behind the government? What role does a Chief of Staff play? And what on earth do government ministers do all day? Ed Balls and George Osborne are tackling your questions on the ins-and-outs of the daily grind of running the country - from official residences to avoiding gimmicks. You could have been listening to this episode of EMQs early and ad-free!Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes and receive early access to EMQs...
2024-08-2631 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Hunter Woodhall on succeeding in business, on social media and on blades.Paralympic track and field star Hunter Woodhall joins legendary sprinter Michael Johnson for an inspiring conversation about their shared experiences in the 400m. Alongside fellow Paralympian Matt Stutzman, Hunter delves into the meticulous process of perfecting their gear, the mindset required to excel at the highest level and the unique challenges of competing on blades.As the first double amputee to earn a Division 1 athletics scholarship at a top US university, Hunter shares his journey of overcoming adversity and channeling that drive into becoming the fastest man on two blades. Beyond the track, he discusses his...
2024-08-2632 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Anastasia Pagonis on finding freedom through swimming, Radar and the positive side of social mediaParalympic star and Queen of the pool Anastasia Pagonis lost her sight at the age of 14, sending her into a spiral of despair. She talks openly to Matt “The Armless Archer” Stutzman and Olympic legend Michael Johnson about her struggles with mental health and how swimming offered her a freedom and sense of control she lacked on dry land. The twenty-year-old from Long Island explains how her “partner in crime”, her beloved guide dog Radar has helped boost her confidence and how she aims to raise the profile of blind people while humorously dispelling myths through her wildl...
2024-08-2328 minPolitical CurrencyAre the Democrats celebrating too soon?The Democratic National Convention is underway in Chicago with jubilant scenes. Fortunately for us - while Ed Balls is on holiday - George Osborne has persuaded former shadow Paymaster General Jonathan Ashworth to be Political Currency’s eyes and ears on the ground as Kamala Harris looks to become the Democratic Party’s formal presidential nominee. But are spirits just a little too high for what is shaping up to be a very closely fought race? And have the Dems been taking notes from the Labour party?Plus, Ed and George have recorded their ultimate guide to s...
2024-08-221h 00Rising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Birgit Skarstein on gratitude, extreme training and going Die Hard!Paralympic Rower and cross-country skier Birgit Skarstein takes a break from her punishing two sport training regime to talk to the Armless Archer, Matt Stutzman, and track and field legend Michael Johnson.Learn how Birgit’s “gratitude list” helped her to stay positive despite a severe spinal cord injury and made her determined to grasp every opportunity that comes her way. Birgit describes falling in love with para sport during a trip to watch the London 2012 Paralympics and deciding to become more involved.Be it survival expeditions, skiing, rowing or dancing with the stars...
2024-08-2132 min
Political CurrencySummer EMQs: Was Austerity a Mistake?Should Labour have defended themselves better against the Tory claim that they’d caused the 2010 UK financial position? Ed Balls and George Osborne go head-to-head on who was to blame, and whether austerity was the answer in this special fiscal policy-themed edition of EMQs. It’s not all debate though - Ed and George explain the concept of ‘running out of money’, and how much of a previous government’s economic policy is required to make its way into a new term. Please keep sending us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukYou...
2024-08-1935 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Gustavo Fernández on ableism, unequal prize money and defining your own limitsGustavo Fernández has won just about every major trophy in wheelchair tennis, but there is one that eludes him - a Paralympic medal. He takes a break from his packed schedule to talk to Paralympic silver medallist Matt “The Armless Archer” Stutzman and legendary Olympian Michael Johnson about his determination to medal at this summer’s Paralympics. Gustavo talks about growing up in Argentina, a country working toward giving disabled people better opportunities. We hear about his route into sport and the toll it has taken on his body. The trio explore pay and sponsorship discrepa...
2024-08-1932 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Gaël Rivière on competing in a home games, his passion for football and hopes for legacyBlind footballer Gaël Rivière joins Paralympic silver medallist Matt Stutzman, “The Armless Archer”, and Olympic track legend Michael Johnson in the studio to talk about playing the beautiful game when you can’t see the ball.Gaël learned to play soccer with his friends on Reunion Island by putting the ball in a plastic bag so he could hear it. These days he plays with a special sounding ball which Matt and Michael get to hear and try out for themselves.In 2012, Gaël was part of Les Bleus silver medal winn...
2024-08-1631 minPolitical CurrencyThe secret to launching a political careerIt’s results day and while students across the country celebrate their A-levels, BTEC and T-levels, university funding has come back into the limelight. And what’s better than one former education minister? Two! Gillian Keegan is sitting in for George this week, and she and Ed Balls consider the best course of action to make the education sector pay for itself. Plus, Gillian makes her case for more business people in Parliament. Would they really drive more growth than career politicians with PPE degrees? And in the next instalment of our summer conver...
2024-08-1557 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Kadeena Cox on mindset, medals and the need for speedKadeena Cox regularly strikes gold in both Para Athletics and Para Cycling but what does it take to succeed in not one, but TWO sports? She joins Paralympic silver medallist Matt “The Armless Archer” Stutzman and legendary Olympian Michael Johnson to share just how she reached the top of two very different Paralympic sportsKadeena’s athletic career began in able-bodied sport, but a stroke followed by an MS diagnosis put an end to that. Our hosts learn how grit and determination resulted in Kadeena dominating on the athletics track and in the cycling...
2024-08-1434 min
Political CurrencySummer EMQs: The Political Currency constituencyEd Balls and George Osborne answer questions from the EMQs archive - this week, an insider’s guide to a life political. Is a u-turn ever the right thing to do? How does the Prime Minister know whose question to answer at a press conference? And is it fair to say that all politicians are just in it for themselves? Plus, Ed makes his predictions for the next shock-exit politician to follow in his and Michael Portillo’s steps as a media personality, and we ponder what our Political Currency constituency looks like. You co...
2024-08-1226 minRising Phoenix: What Does It Take?Introducing… Rising Phoenix: What Does it Take?What exactly does it take to become an elite Paralympian? Paralympic silver medallist Matt “The Armless Archer” Stutzman and track and field legend Michael Johnson know what it takes to succeed at the highest level. They chat about their new podcast Rising Phoenix: What Does It Take? and what to expect from the Paralympic Games this summer.Across eight episodes, these sporting friends will meet some of the most talented Paralympians in the world. They’ll ask “what it takes” to make it at the highest level of Paralympic sport. In this introductory episode, we...
2024-08-0917 minPolitical CurrencyShould the Tories stop chasing Reform voters?Britain braced itself for widespread rioting and anti-immigration demonstrations, with shops boarding up their storefronts and commuters told to take care on their way home. Instead, a pushback from counter protestors and a heavy police presence largely quelled any violence. Ed Balls and Grant Shapps – who is in the seat for George Osborne – consider how Keir Starmer has handled the situation. Grant gives his honest opinion on how all his previous leaders handled their own crises – from the best all the way to Liz Truss. And, the battle for both the Tory leadership and the party’s soul no...
2024-08-0859 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Summer Recess BuddiesEd and George are going on a summer holiday… and Ed’s GMB co-host Ranvir Singh wonders, if they had to take a trip with a member of the opposition, who would it be? Whoever Ed chooses will have an interesting outfit to look forward to, as he reveals his holiday get-up to a somewhat stunned George. We’ve had a question from another member of gazebo man’s family - and this time, his dad wants to know, should Covid business loans be written off? Ed and George also tackle food VAT, Rishi Sun...
2024-08-0535 minPolitical CurrencyRachel Reeves: The next austerity chancellor?In the wake of the tragic events this week in Southport, and the eruption of riots that followed, Ed Balls and George Osborne consider how MPs should confront violence and disinformation – all while keeping to the rules. George wonders if courts should update reporting restrictions in a social media age, while Ed cautions that no politician ever wants to jeopardise a criminal trial. George is clear on one thing, though – the political establishment needs to take a firmer hand in dealing with Nigel Farage, who has been accused of inciting riots with incendiary comments about the stabbings this week.
2024-08-0157 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Celebs go politickingCould we see celebrities swapping the silver screen, football pitch or concert stage for the hallowed halls of Westminster? Ed Balls and George Osborne recall stars who have previously made the switch – does anybody ever really pull it off?And, our hosts have got Paris 2024 fever as they look back on their favourite Olympic moments from London 2012. As athletes prepare to compete on the world stage, what are the best lessons or policies the UK has learnt from overseas? Plus, will inflation go down? And how should we pick our party leaders?...
2024-07-2932 minPolitical CurrencyStarmer, Strictly and Summer of BratThe world is braced for a brat summer as Kamala Harris steps in for Joe Biden as the Democratic presidential candidate - George Osborne and Ed Balls consider whether the fevered KHive reaction spells success, or simply masks the very real challenge ahead. In Labour land, Rachel Reeves is preparing her statement on the fiscal reality the government faces, all in the shadow of seven Labour MPs losing the whip over George’s two-child benefit cap. Was Keir Starmer right to cast off the rebels? And, Ed and George offer their advice to Reeves - how can...
2024-07-2458 minPolitical CurrencyMeet JD Vance, Trump’s VP and George Osborne’s friendIt was a bonkers week for American politics, on both sides. Team Trump went from an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania to a fiery convention in Wisconsin. Biden’s camp had NATO, fresh calls for him to drop out of the race and a Covid diagnosis to round it off, all in a matter of days.And amongst it all, a fresh political operative came into the limelight: Donald Trump’s newly-named running mate JD Vance. Turns out, he’s an old friend of George’s and a long-time fan of the former Cameron-Osborne government. George Osborne reveals...
2024-07-1854 minPolitical CurrencyInside the race to lead the Tory partyWhile Keir Starmer gets on with the business of naming ministers and settling in at Number 10, the Tories are picking up the pieces of their shattered party and considering the best person to turn the ship around. So who is the new Rishi? Is it Kemi, Suella, Priti? Whoever gets the top job needs to be a healer, George says, and not a warrior. Meanwhile, winning a campaign is one thing, staying in government is another. Ed and George think Labour is in danger of lurching into technocrat territory when all the people want is some c...
2024-07-111h 01
Political CurrencyEMQs: Is Rishi California Dreamin’?Is Rishi Sunak California dreamin’ of a post-PM life? Or are the rolling hills of Yorkshire calling him to stick around? Ed Balls and George Osborne ponder what the Prime Minister will do next if he loses his premiership next week. How can good polling change an election outcome? And what does the cost of living crisis actually mean?Plus, they give their best advice for making it through the election all-nighter. And has anybody seen Ed Miliband?Assistant Producer: Miriam HallProducer: Rosie StopherTechnical Producer: Will Gibson Sm...
2024-07-0130 minPolitical CurrencyIs Labour's honeymoon already over?The final week of election campaigning is here! Keir Starmer hasn't even measured up for curtains in Downing Street yet, but the attention is already turning to the headaches he will face in government. After a wobbly final debate performance against Rishi Sunak, Ed Balls wonders if the Labour leader can ever go for the jugular when it counts.Then there's the markets. Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves might have high hopes for their policies, but where will the money come from? George Osborne thinks Labour's honeymoon might be over before it's begun....
2024-06-271h 00
Political CurrencyEMQs: Political porkies and party peopleWill shy Tories (or Reform UK-ers) deny Keir Starmer his landslide? If not, who should the Conservatives install as leader to provide stability – perhaps somebody with international and domestic credibility... say ... David Cameron?Plus, does your postal vote count if you die before the big day? And, who would you invite to your ultimate political party? Please make sure you’ve got your karaoke song at the ready.You could have been listening to this episode of EMQs early and ad-free! Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free...
2024-06-2438 min
Political CurrencyELECTION EXTRA: Should Sunak fight dirty?Can Rishi Sunak do anything to rescue his flailing election campaign? Some advisors have suggested the answer may lie in ramping up negative attacks on Keir Starmer. Why does George Osborne think that approach would be a “disaster” for Sunak?And, have you noticed which MPs are missing from the airwaves? Ed Balls says it tells you more about the parties’ upcoming problems than you might first realise.Plus, Rachel Reeves has been working hard to court British businesses. But will her strategy pay off?You could have been listening to thi...
2024-06-1833 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: How an ex-PM leaves No. 10What more can be done to tackle childhood obesity? George Osborne and Ed Balls answer a question from Jamie Oliver on whether a future government could further Wes Streeting’s commitment to banning energy drinks and tackle childhood obesity. Is a protest vote ever worthwhile? And, former Tory MP Margot James asks: where are all the women in the campaigns? Plus, what is it like to be kicked out of Number 10 at speed? And perhaps more importantly, what are the political souvenirs that get left behind? Ed reveals a surprising artefact left behind by Tony Blair…...
2024-06-1731 minPolitical CurrencyLabour’s Straitjacket ManifestoAfter a rocky moment over his support of Jeremy Corbyn, Keir Starmer was determined to get his campaign back on track with the launch of his manifesto. George Osborne asks what it tells us about a potential incoming Labour government and Ed Balls warns it could be a financial straitjacket, making life for the party ‘very difficult’. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak suffered a series of embarrassing media gaffes this week. Has bad polling sealed his fate or can he do anything to turn things around now?And in America, President Biden’s son Hunter is faci...
2024-06-1357 min
Political CurrencyELECTION EXTRA: Manifestos, Macron and Money ProblemsHave the wheels well and truly fallen off the Conservative election campaign? After a dismal D-Day debacle and news that social media campaigning is suspended, Ed Balls and George Osborne question whether Rishi Sunak is just giving up.Regardless, it’s manifesto launch week for the Conservatives, Labour and the Lib Dems, and an opportunity for each party to commit to their election promises. But do manifestos actually matter? And what’s going on behind the scenes as they’re finalised?And election chaos seems to be spreading - in the aftermath of far-ri...
2024-06-1131 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Punches, Paxman, and Parachuted CandidatesLabour and the Tories can’t stop arguing about whether things are getting better, or if they’ve never been worse: So what’s the truth? Ed Balls and George Osborne weigh up whether the two are mutually exclusive. Rob Burley wants to know if we’re seeing the consequences of the demise of the long-form interview in this election campaign, and we take a look at Labour’s candidates. Plus, in light of Nigel Farage’s milkshake incident, Ed takes us back to another time when a politician had an unwelcome interaction with a member of the public’...
2024-06-1034 min
Political CurrencyElection Hot Take: Can Sunak save his campaign?Rishi Sunak is facing dismal polling and Nigel Farage out on manouevers. In our first Election Hot Take, George Osborne reveals the sense of resignation that has set in among Tory MPs. Is the only thing that can save the Tories now a massive policy play? George thinks they may be working something up on inheritance tax.Meanwhile in Labourland, the fall out from the Diane Abbott saga continues. Angela Rayner has stepped in to defend her, opening the door for the long-time Hackney MP to stand again. What does it reveal about the power Rayner...
2024-06-0423 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Paddleboards, power stances and private schoolsGimmicks and gaffes have been a feature of the first week of the election campaign. Inspired by Ed Davey’s attempt to raise awareness of river pollution by falling off a paddleboard – multiple times – George and Ed reflect on the nation’s (and their own) cringiest political stunts. And George finally reveals all – how did he end up doing the ultimate Tory power stance?It’s not just PR moves though, policy debate is in full swing. Ed and George disagree on Labour’s planned tax on private school fees and mull the consequences the election could have for the mark...
2024-06-0332 minPolitical CurrencyIs Rishi Sunak's election gamble paying off?After a faltering start in the rain, Rishi Sunak’s campaign seems to be gaining momentum. Is it enough to prove he was right to gamble on a snap election? While it might not all be plain sailing for the Conservatives, things have certainly been looking up as trouble brews in the Labour Party. Ed Balls thinks Keir Starmer's handling of Diane’s Abbott’s candidacy has been a “terrible mess”. Could it have real ramifications for his hopes at the polls? But elsewhere George Osborne thinks a nightmare could be brewing for the Tories i...
2024-05-3055 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Election Questions SpecialEd Balls and George Osborne have election fever and won’t be stopped from answering your EMQs. How did George get the election date so wrong? Is the public too despondent with the state of politics to bother voting at all? And could the Liberal Democrats stun us all to become a credible opposition? Plus, George reveals what he thinks the Tories’ attack line on Keir Starmer will be, and Ed tries to nail him down on just who the incompetent junior minister in his treasury was…You could have been listening to this ep...
2024-05-2730 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Truss, treasury officials and techxit?Why doesn’t Bristol have a mayor anymore? What do treasury officials actually do? And is there a reason we’re losing so many bright young tech experts to the West Coast of America?Plus, author Will Hutton wants to know if Ed Balls and George Osborne will take responsibility for their involvement in the economic crises of the twenty-first century, and in a podcast crossover, Sascha O’Sullivan of POLITICO’s Westminster Insider wants to know if we should be trying to find silver linings in Truss’s attempt to be different. Remember to...
2024-05-2035 minPolitical CurrencyProtests, Presidents and Politics like it's 97! Keir Starmer, poster boy. The Labour leader’s new pledge card is here, with six key policies and a black and white photoshoot to woo the public. Is it all a bit retro? Well that depends who you ask: George Osborne would prefer a new approach, whereas Ed Balls reckons some solid Labour '97 nostalgia might just be what the party needs.Meanwhile, Labour’s shadow foreign secretary David Lammy is working hard to get himself out there on the world stage - and back in the good books of a certain former (and possibly future) US P...
2024-05-1757 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Political Book ClubEd Balls and George Osborne are pleased to have been asked for book recommendations. Is this the start of a book club to compete with the likes of Richard and Judy? If so, George is bagsying his role in the duo now - and no, it’s not Richard. MP Greg Clark asks about the future of local mayoralties, and Sunday Times interviewer Decca Aitkenhead wants to know whether George is doing anything about his, ahem, selective memory. Plus, what on earth did the Cameron government see in Liz Truss all those years ago, and what’s cha...
2024-05-1336 minPolitical CurrencyDefections, coalitions and China-UK relationsRishi Sunak lives to fight another day after some terrible local election results. But as he loses yet another MP to Labour, Ed Balls and George Osborne ask whether it might be time to play a new strategy and try acting the underdog.Meanwhile, whilst Labour had a markedly better weekend, it didn’t quite indicate the 1997-style landslide they might be hoping for in the next general election. Is Keir Starmer on track for a small majority? And if so, how should he manage it?And in foreign affairs, the UK is no...
2024-05-081h 05Political CurrencyWill local elections bring down Sunak?It’s polling day. Ed Balls and George Osborne give their expert analysis on the importance of local elections: what contests do you need to look out for? And what do they reveal about Rishi Sunak’s political fortunes?Across the border, the Scottish National Party is in turmoil after First Minister Humza Yousaf resigned. Could this open the door to a Labour resurgence in Scotland?Speaking of, the person hoping to lead that resurgence is Keir Starmer. But how well do we really know the man hoping to be our next Prime Mini...
2024-05-0259 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Ed Balls DayIt’s the most auspicious day of the year: Ed Balls Day. To celebrate, George has got his Ed Balls mask out (not a euphemism), and is ready to go Inside the Room. Just kidding. But he has in fact organised some questions from Ed’s nearest and not-so dearest. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves asks about Ed’s favourite Gregg’s order. Bandmate and Political Journalist Robert Peston wants to know why regulation of public services has gone so badly wrong, and Ed’s successor in his Morley and Outwood seat, Andrea Jenkyns, wonders if he regrets Lab...
2024-04-2838 minPolitical CurrencyPlanes, Trains and NationalismAfter two years, Rishi Sunak can finally celebrate a Rwanda victory as his bill passes in parliament - but Ed Balls and George Osborne can’t help noticing it’s been somewhat overshadowed by an announcement on defence spending. Is the government playing with fudged figures? And is it even worthwhile as far as voters are concerned?St George’s Day saw an unexpected new poster boy this week - and no, it’s not George, much to his chagrin. Keir Starmer is embracing his patriotic side. Ed and George weigh in on whether now is the righ...
2024-04-251h 00
Political CurrencyEMQs: Blunders, Bag Carriers and Biden’s StammerIs the role of a PPS more than just a ‘bag carrier’ and when has it gone wrong? If Ed and George could have a cardboard cut out of any politician who would it be? And BBC Radio 4’s Amol Rajan asks Ed about Joe Biden’s stammer. Should the American President talk more openly about his speech impediment? Plus, is the rise of the smartphone to blame for us all being less productive? And should 16 and 17 year olds have been allowed to vote in the Brexit referendum? Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY G...
2024-04-2238 min
Political CurrencyLiz Truss for PM?It should have finally been a bumper week for Rishi Sunak - with inflation down, a win for his smoking ban and with success on his Rwanda legislation within sight.But instead, would-be Tory leaders have been hogging the limelight. Liz Truss is back with a vengeance. Could her ‘Trump-style’ return to form see her reinstated as head of the party? Or is it Kemi Badenoch’s time to shine? Why has her stance on the smoking ban been rubbing her colleagues up the wrong way? And as we head towards...
2024-04-1759 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: The Brexit Plots specialEd Balls and George Osborne were Inside the Room with Michael Gove last week to deep dive into the Brexit plots - and now they’re facing your questions on the moment that changed British politics forever. What happened to all the voters the EU referendum coaxed out of the woodwork? Are women ignored in the retelling of those tumultuous days of 2016? And what can historical parallels tell us about the inevitability of rejoining?Plus, GB News’ Chris Hope asks why George and David Cameron didn’t give themselves more time for their EU nego...
2024-04-1537 min
Political CurrencySexts, Tax and Mar-a-LagoAnother week, another scandal surrounding the Conservatives. But this time of the honey trapping variety. Ed and George discuss the dating app scam that has ensnared at least one MP. Meanwhile, Labour is having a difficult time stamping out persistent claims the party’s Deputy Leader Angela Rayner dodged tax on a house sale. George says if she stumbles, all the Conservatives want to see her fall. He predicts there will be more to come. And David Cameron is back on the world stage, meeting with US presidential candidate Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago in F...
2024-04-1159 min
Political CurrencyInside The Room: The Brexit Plots (Part 3)The result is in, and in the words of David Dimbleby, ‘we’re out’. But whilst the Brexit referendum draws a line under the campaign period, it sets the stage for chaos in the lives of our insiders. In this final episode of 'Inside the Room: The Brexit Plots', Ed Balls and George Osborne grill Michael Gove on the Conservative leadership contest that followed David Cameron’s resignation, and what (or who) persuaded him to commit one of the great political betrayals of recent years.Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-fr...
2024-04-1047 min
Political CurrencyInside The Room: The Brexit Plots (Part 2)As the Leave and Remain campaigns get underway, it seems that the Remain camp has a clear lead. That is, until it doesn’t. In this second instalment of Inside the Room: The Brexit Plot, Michael Gove, Ed Balls and George Osborne take us behind the scenes of the ever-more-panicked campaign HQs as polling day draws in.Part 3 of 'Inside The Room: The Brexit Plots' is exclusively available to listen to now for subscribers to POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅Become a member of Political Currency Gold to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listen...
2024-04-0841 min
Political CurrencyInside The Room: The Brexit Plots (Part 1)Brexit was the issue that splintered British politics: Friendships were broken, political parties split, and a nation polarised by the EU referendum. We all know what the outcome was, but in this special miniseries, Ed Balls and George Osborne are joined by Michael Gove - the ultimate Leave campaign insider - to discover what really went on behind the scenes of the biggest political shakeup of the 21st century.In this first part of three, Ed, George and Michael take us back to the beginning of the Brexit campaigns and ‘inside the room’ as a formerly wate...
2024-04-0447 minPolitical CurrencyBallots, the BBC and Buying BritishParliament may be heading into recess, but there’s little time for holidaying as the political parties are heading straight into local election campaigning after Easter. Ed Balls and George Osborne take stock of how those campaigns are shaping up, who and what to watch out for, and how the results might change the Westminster mood.Is the BBC in danger again? And this time it’s from inside. After Tim Davie’s remarks this week, Ed and George take a deep dive on their own history with Auntie. And as we approach the end...
2024-03-2853 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Tactical voting, Tradition, and Taylor SwiftThe latest polling predicts Conservative armageddon in the next election. But do these polls matter? George reveals why the Tories are still banking on winning over those ‘don’t know’ voters. They’ll have a mountain to climb, with growing fears of coordinated tactical voting. Will it work as a strategy, and have Ed and George ever dared to vote for another party? And when Taylor Swift comes roaring into town, does she bring a massive economic boost with her? Our not-so-secret Swifties aren’t convinced… Plus, they tackle the consequences of...
2024-03-2529 minPolitical CurrencyCan Sunak save himself?Rishi Sunak is on a mission to prove his political fortunes are turning round… despite a long list of headaches. How can he get out of the political spiral he’s in? George and Ed pick over some lessons from Prime Ministers past… He’d do well to heed their words. On the Labour side, Rachel Reeves had made another big play for the role of chancellor, giving the Mais lecture. Is ‘securonomics’ the future of Britain? And does it mean she’s disowning some of Ed’s New Labour decisions?And forget the Eton rifles...
2024-03-2157 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Should cannabis be legalised?Is legalising cannabis the answer to the hole in Labour’s financial plans? Are fiscal rules there to be broken? And, in light of the infamous royal photography fail, can Ed and George think of other times a photograph has landed a public figure in hot water? Of course they can - sorry Prime Minister!Got a question for Ed and George? Send a voice note to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukProducer: Rosie Stopher Production support: Miriam Hall Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie CliffordPolitical Curr...
2024-03-1826 minPolitical CurrencyDodgy donors, Diane Abbott and digital currencyMichael Gove is rolling out his new definition of extremism this week, to the chagrin of people across the political spectrum. Ed and George weigh in on whether this will have any impact in keeping the UK safe, or whether it will threaten to divide the country further.Unfortunately for Gove, a major Tory donor undermined the whole message with his own extreme comments about Diane Abbott. Should they return his £10m donation? And why didn’t they consult their most senior Black female member before responding to this new crisis? And the ‘crypto...
2024-03-1451 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Why does Trump keep winning?How does Donald Trump’s popularity endure, in spite of all his misdemeanours, and might Nigel Farage be taking notes? What is universal basic income and could it ever work in the UK? And George addresses recent claims that his little birdies in Downing Street have been found out… Ed and George are back answering more of your questions on EMQs. Have you got a burning issue you’d like them to address? Send a voice note to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukProducer: Rosie Stopher Production support: Miriam Hall Productio...
2024-03-1128 minPolitical CurrencyA May election?With the budget behind us, Ed pushes George on whether he’s still backing a November election. Tory sources are saying there’s a push from the centre of the party to send the country to the polls in May, but George has pretty strong views on what kind of idea that would be …. Meanwhile, Lord David Cameron is making lists and taking risks. The Foreign Secretary just celebrated 100 days in office, and George says he is being true to form by releasing a video listing off his lengthy travel agenda. But while anyone can hop on a pl...
2024-03-0757 min
Political CurrencyHOT TAKE: Is this an election winning budget?Is this the budget that turns the Tories’ fortunes? Ed and George have been poised for this day for weeks: budget day! They give their immediate reaction to Jeremy Hunt’s (final?) spending plans, consider whether it meets the tests they set out on last week's episode, and they answer your questions.This episode was originally broadcast LIVE on YouTube. Make sure you’re following us on social media @polcurrency so you don’t miss the next one. Producer: Rosie StopherTech production: Will Gibson SmithExecutive...
2024-03-0633 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Secrets of the Budget speech and the EdStone mysteryIt's Budget week. Do Ed and George wish they were back in Parliament? And what's the secret to making it through the speech?Plus they answer lots more of your questions, from whether Rachel Reeves is right to be thinking about reinstating the pensions lifetime allowance, to the mystery of what happened to the infamous EdStone...Be sure to follow us on our socials @polcurrency and join us at 3pm on Wednesday 6th March for Ed and George’s live budget reaction. Producer: Rosie Stopher Production support: Miriam Hall ...
2024-03-0429 minPolitical CurrencyIslamophobia, Truss conspiracies and budget frictionGeorge reveals it was Sajid Javid who told Rishi Sunak to strip Lee Anderson of the whip, after comments that have been slammed as Islamophobic and hate speech. But on the broadcast rounds, the Conservative party line is to stop short, saying the “words were wrong” – over and over and over again. How would George and Ed tackle the furore, and why do they think Rishi Sunak should take a hard line and not “leave junior ministers out to dry”?All the while, next week’s budget is causing friction between No. 10 and No. 11 – will Downing Street get the...
2024-02-291h 00
Political CurrencyEMQS: Boris' book, private planes and positive discriminationIs Boris Johnson's forthcoming book going to cause Rishi Sunak another headache? Is it acceptable for political leaders to take private planes? And does positive discrimination ever work in politics? Ed Balls and George Osborne answer these questions and more in our latest instalment of EMQs.Send your questions for future episodes to questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukFollow us on social media: @polcurrencyProducers: Rosie Stopher and Nathan CopelinProduction support: Miriam Hall Production Manager: Flick HeathExecutive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford
2024-02-2631 minPolitical CurrencyChaos in the CommonsChaos reigns supreme in Parliament this week after a tabled Labour amendment led to calls for Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle to resign. Is it really as big a deal as has been made out? Or is it a huge mess for the Speaker to overcome?Why isn’t the economy front and centre in this election year? It is on Political Currency! This week Ed Balls and George Osborne focus on housing policy. Will election battles be won on the greenbelt? And on Cameron-watch George’s mate David has been at the G...
2024-02-221h 01
Political CurrencyEMQs: Private school fees and public sackingsEd Balls and George Osborne answer more of your Ex-Minister’s Questions. Speaking of ex-ministers, Nick Boles, wants to know if there’s still an opportunity for anyone except Trump and Biden in the race for POTUS... And what about Labour’s proposed VAT on private school fees - will it cause a state school influx? Is the left a bit ‘male’ as George alleges? Ed isn’t convinced. Plus, they both revisit their experience of very publicly losing their jobs.Follow us on social media: @polcurrencyProducers: Rosie Stopher and Nathan Co...
2024-02-1936 minPolitical Currency'Rishession' and Starmer’s anti-semitism problemThe United Kingdom has fallen into recession… technically. It couldn’t be worse timing for the Sunak government, which will now have this gloomy economic news - already dubbed ‘Rishession’ - hanging over its head for the next three months. What would Ed and George do next?Meanwhile, Labour has been battling a crisis of its own, as it’s embroiled in another row over anti-semitism in the party. Has Keir Starmer done enough to address concerns over Rochdale candidate Azhar Ali? Ed and George agree it’s an embarrassing mess for Starmer and the worst week of his...
2024-02-1553 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Our next female PM & tea with Dr DreEd Balls and George Osborne are back with more of your questions. Is the minimum wage making life harder for businesses? Which party will our next female Prime Minister hail from? Does Keir Starmer have enough charisma to maintain his leadership? Ed and George also reveal their best ever celebrity meetings - although George’s turns out to be a little too hip for Ed. And if you’ve ever wondered if Ed considered dropping the ‘Balls’ - well, it emerges it could have been worse. Follow us on social media: @polcurrencyProducers: Rachel Ba...
2024-02-1235 minPolitical CurrencyWhat do Sunak and Starmer actually stand for?It’s been a week of missteps for Rishi Sunak - an uncomfortable bet struck with Piers Morgan over Rwanda and a jibe gone wrong at PMQs - plus Liz Truss and her PopCon launch can’t have helped. Is this a precursor to the next leadership contest - or just misguided lessons in popularity with one of the least popular PMs of all time?In Labour land, the party’s £28 billion on green spending U-turn is finally coming to fruition, weeks after Ed predicted it would. Is it screeching to a stop enough for people to noti...
2024-02-0847 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Social media screw-ups and has Matt Hancock been misunderstood?On this week's Ex-minister’s Questions, a listeners asks if Matt Hancock has simply been misunderstood? No guesses for which way Ed and George fall on that one. They’re also tackling social care policy, Sunday opening hours, and the real meaning of 'Chatham House rules'. Speaking of which, we've had correspondence from an anonymous source with a revelation about Rishi Sunak and a disappearing video he filmed for social media's most successful foodie account; TOPJAW.Follow us on social media: @polcurrencyProducers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie StopherProduction Manager: Flick Heat...
2024-02-0526 minPolitical CurrencyBrexit Means Bankers' Bonuses!Wednesday marked the four-year anniversary of Brexit. Passed you by? Don’t worry, George admits he deleted the celebratory email from Tory HQ in protest. One old legacy of EU regulation is the bankers’ bonus cap, which Rachel Reeves revealed Labour would not reinstate if it won the election. Ed thinks she might be boxing herself in. He and George debate whether Britain has capitalised on its freedom from ‘red tape’ or if it’s all been a bit of a flop.Rishi Sunak has announced a ban on disposable vapes. Sensible public health decision or the nanny...
2024-02-0146 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Political nicknames, a radical NHS & snorting in Parliament Ed and George tackle more Ex-Ministers’ Questions. What are the best nicknames they’ve heard in politics? Is it time to radically rethink the NHS? How can the Israel-Palestine conflict be talked about in a way that’s respectful to both sides? And George reveals one of the strangest rules in the House of Commons... may contain references to snorting - you have been warned!To send in your questions for next week's episode, email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk - we love to receive your voice notes! Follow us on social media: @polcurrency
2024-01-2933 minPolitical CurrencyHow (not) to take down a prime ministerHas Rishi Sunak survived his first attempted coup? It might look like Simon Clarke’s amounted to nothing but Ed and George think it might be too soon to tell whether he’s failed yet. They have plenty of insights into plots past, and the many ways they can fizzle, burn, or downright engulf a prime minister.Elsewhere in politics, the UK tax burden has been drifting up to a rate not seen since the 1960s. Can any chancellor - current or future - do anything about it?And in Europe, a beleaguered Germa...
2024-01-2549 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Preparing for PMQs, crisis management & setting the royal budgetEd and George are back to answer more of your Ex-Ministers' Questions. Who would lead a crisis during coalition negotiations? How do you prepare for PMQs? George and Ed discuss how they changed how the monarchy is financed. George reveals his double-life as leader of the Labour party. And Ed is grilled about kicking Susanna Reid in the head on live TV…To send in your questions for next week's episode, email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk - we love to get your voice notes! Follow us on social media: @polcurrency Producers: Rach...
2024-01-2231 minPolitical CurrencyRishi Sunak's next nightmareRishi Sunak survived Tory mutiny over the Rwanda policy, but he’s not out of the woods just yet. Ed and George explain why his road to election 2024 still faces huge problems.Meanwhile, George has been in Davos this week. He reveals his celebrity spots - including Sting - as well as the global mood on the economy. But is this more than just a glitzy who’s who? Ed thinks it's a prime opportunity for opposition parties to show they mean business. And, in America, Donald Trump has claimed victory in the Iowa c...
2024-01-1850 min
Political CurrencyEMQs: Special Advisers, tuition fees and is the Barnett formula fair?Welcome to our first edition of EMQs - Ex-Ministers' Questions... see what we did there?. Every Monday, our ex-ministers will take your questions. Ed Balls and George Osborne will also hear from some influential and famous voices.In our first episode: did the Lib Dems agree to ditch their pledge on tuition fees during the coalition talks? What is the Barnett formula and is it fair? And why are Special Advisers such as Dominic Cummings so influential?To send in your questions for next week's episode, email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk - we...
2024-01-1531 minPolitical CurrencyGeorge reveals the election date!General election fever begins as George shares his insider tip on when the country can expect to go to the polls. But the new year has kicked off with new problems for political leaders. What do they need to get in order first? How can they tackle a much older issue that’s been dominating politics this week? The ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office has captured the public’s imagination and led to demands for justice. Ed and George reflect on how they missed the story the first time round, and whether it will...
2024-01-1152 min
Political CurrencyInside The Room: The Coalition Talks (Part 2)After two days of negotiations, the Conservatives had begun to worry a deal was slipping through their fingers. So what shifted to put David Cameron in Number 10? Danny Alexander is back with Ed and George to relive the five tense days in 2010 that led to a coalition government between the Tories and the Lib Dems.In our second instalment, Ed and George grill Nick Clegg’s former Chief of Staff and lead negotiator about the moment he told Gordon Brown he had to go, and why the Lib Dems decided to join forces with the Tories. Th...
2024-01-0455 min
Political CurrencyInside The Room: The Coalition Talks (Part 1)To the shock of the whole country, the 2010 general election delivered a hung parliament. The result kick-started five days of arguments and negotiations as the real race to Number 10 began between Gordon Brown and David Cameron, with Nick Clegg as kingmaker. In this special episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne are joined by Danny Alexander, who was Nick Clegg's Chief of Staff and the Lib Dem lead negotiator during the coalition talks. George and Ed were also leading negotiations on behalf of David Cameron and Gordon Brown. The three take us 'inside the room' of the...
2023-12-3033 min
Political CurrencyChristmas Questions Special: Jeremy Hunt, Rachel Reeves & Stephen FryEd and George answer questions from some very special guests...Jeremy Hunt asks about the power budgets can have on elections, Stephen Fry grills George on the Elgin Marbles, and Susannah Reid wants to know what Ed and George think is the most significant TV interview they’ve seen. As we head into an election year, they reminisce on their first time as candidates, how they met their big political partners, and Rachel Reeves asks them about their best Christmases in the Treasury.Producer: Rachel BalmerProduction Manager: Fli...
2023-12-2840 minPolitical CurrencyDo They Know It's Election Time?George comes bearing gifts… the news of a winter election next year. As parliament winds down for Christmas, Ed and George reveal there’s no rest for politicians. The mood in the Tory party is gloomy, but could this be a critical moment for the opposition to strike?Cameron, Starmer and Sunak have all been calling for a ‘sustainable ceasefire’ in Gaza. But is there such a thing? George throws down the challenge to our new ‘Rolls-Royce’ foreign sec.The junior doctors are on strike again. Ed and George think they’re asking for too much...
2023-12-2156 minPolitical CurrencyKeir Starmer’s popularity problemIt’s not just Rishi Sunak’s approval rating which has taken a battering. Keir Starmer has his own popularity problem. Why?The so-called ‘five families’ of the Tory party threaten to “go to the mattresses” over the Rwanda bill, but end up bottling it. Is Mark Francois really the next Don Corleone? Ukraine’s President Zelensky has embarked on a world tour, pleading for more money for the Ukraine war. Is it time to rethink their strategy? And why London’s time as the great financial centre of the world might be ove...
2023-12-141h 00Political CurrencyTory shambles: Rwanda resignation and Boris at the Covid inquiryAnother week… another meltdown for the Conservatives. Ed and George ask whether the Tory civil wars have been reignited by the rift over Rwanda and Robert Jenrick’s shock resignation. Is Sunak’s position weaker than ever?Meanwhile former prime ministers haunt party leaders wherever they go. Boris Johnson is giving evidence at the Covid inquiry, painting a picture of chaos during his tenure. George shares his own theories about the dire state of Johnson’s personal finances.And Keir Starmer faces his critics after evoking Margaret Thatcher’s legacy this week. Ed and George...
2023-12-0754 minPolitical CurrencySunak's Greek TragedyThe Autumn Statement hasn’t delivered the stability and calm that Sunak and Hunt likely hoped for. A rift in the party over immigration, a chaotic Covid inquiry and to top it off, a diplomatic incident with the Greek PM over the Parthenon Sculptures. In a week where Sunak hoped his Global Investment Summit would grab the headlines, why are the Tories failing to land their message?Meanwhile, it's reported Sunak rebuffed Cabinet Secretary Simon Case’s proposals to allow talks between the opposition and the Civil Service to begin. Ed and George shed some light on t...
2023-11-301h 01Political CurrencyLosing control of migration?The Autumn Statement continues to ripple through Westminster, and a new energy price cap puts the cost of living back into the spotlight. As the Chancellor continues his media rounds and Labour weighs in with their response, Ed and George share their experiences of the political traps set by big budget shakeups. Meanwhile, immigration is the big topic around the world today, as new migration figures are released in the UK, and elections are won in the Netherlands and Argentina over the issue. So just how can a government show they’re taking immigration concerns seriously whi...
2023-11-2356 min
Political CurrencyHOT TAKE: The pre-election Autumn Statement?George and Ed react to Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement. Is he really the tax cutting Chancellor he's claiming to be, and are we on course for an early election? And we’ll be back again tomorrow with more detail on the Chancellor’s plans as the picture becomes clearer.Email: questions@persephonica.comExec producer: Dino SofosProducer: Rachel BalmerProduction Manager: Flick HeathPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network Hosted on Acast. See acas...
2023-11-2228 minPolitical CurrencyTories at war and a Labour rebellionIt’s been a wild week in Westminster and it’s starting to look like the Tories are losing their grip. Ed and George chew over the Supreme Court’s judgment on Rwanda and what it means for Sunak. Could his new Foreign Secretary slam the brakes on some Tories’ hopes to leave the ECHR?Meanwhile, Keir Starmer faced a huge rebellion of his MPs over the SNP’s ceasefire amendment. Ed explains why this isn’t as big a threat to the Labour leader as it first appears... And though this psycho-drama has quickly b...
2023-11-161h 07
Political CurrencyHOT TAKE: The Return of David CameronRishi Sunak has finally sacked Suella Braverman, and the reshuffle has opened the door for the most unlikely return to politics: David Cameron. In our first HOT TAKE bonus episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne - his closest political friend - brings us the inside scoop on our new Foreign Secretary.Email questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukFollow us on social media: @polcurrencyExec producers: Ellie Clifford and Dino SofosProducer: Rachel BalmerProduction Manager: Flick HeathPolitical Currency is a Persephonica Production a...
2023-11-1322 minPolitical CurrencyHow do you solve a problem like Suella?Suella Braverman has attacked the Met Police Chief’s decision to allow the pro-Palestine march this Saturday, putting Rishi Sunak in a tricky position. Ed asks George whether firing her is the only option.Civil servants and ministers are currently scrambling around the Treasury to get everything ready for the upcoming Autumn Statement. All eyes will be on Jeremy Hunt: will he survive his big moment?And Nadine Dorries’ book is out today, shedding light on the shadowy group she calls ‘the Movement’ operating at the heart of government. Is populism over in British...
2023-11-091h 00Political CurrencyThe price of Johnson's toxic Downing Street cultureIt was Dominic Cummings' turn at the Covid inquiry this week and - as George predicted - we heard about the misogynistic language being used in Boris Johnson's Number 10. What does it reveal about the toxic culture operating in Westminster at that time? And why this isn't ancient history for the Tories.Trouble is still brewing for Keir Starmer over his party's response to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Is his political authority in danger?And why the American economy is having a much bigger impact on your house price than you think.
2023-11-0256 minPolitical CurrencyDisgusting Covid WhatsApps, Starmer’s Gaza dilemma and Sunak’s AI adviserKeir Starmer has shifted his position on Gaza. But he’s still not calling for a ceasefire. Has this incident been a wake up call for the Labour party? George Osborne reveals that we’ll be hearing about some “shocking and disgusting” messages sent by Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings at the Covid inquiry next week. And we’re joined by Matt Clifford, Rishi Sunak’s representative for the AI Safety Summit. He’s warning of the need to avoid a “Three Mile Island” moment for AI.Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukFollow us on social media...
2023-10-261h 04Political CurrencyStarmer’s Israel mis-step, by-elections and Covid angstKeir Starmer’s potentially got his party into hot water this week over his position on Israel’s right to defend herself - what should he do next? And what risk does it pose to Labour support in any upcoming elections?Speaking of elections: As we await results of two by-elections, George and Ed give their predictions and share memories of outgoing Mid Bedfordshire MP Nadine Dorries. George has been giving evidence in the Covid-19 inquiry, which is back in session. It’s rumbling on quietly at the moment, but with some big names c...
2023-10-191h 04Political CurrencyIsrael-Gaza: What are Sunak and Starmer privately thinking?The violence between Israel and Gaza rages on. What are Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer thinking behind the scenes in Westminster? And what does the conflict mean for the global economy?Elsewhere, it was Labour’s turn to set our their stall at conference. Keir Starmer gave a glittering performance with housing at its core, and the ex-Bank Of England chief gave Rachel Reeves a glowing endorsement. But Ed and George both think there’s more to do to convince voters.And could higher interest rates mean that young people can actually get on t...
2023-10-1251 minPolitical CurrencyIs Sunak tearing the Tories apart?It's conference season and Ed and George aren't short of speeches to dissect. The Prime Minister has launched his new and improved radical Rishi persona this week - is it enough to save the Conservatives at the next election? And can it compete with the real talk of the conference - a certain Mr Farage spotted here there and everywhere?Meanwhile, Labour are preparing to take to the stage for their own conference in Liverpool, with Rachel Reeves' hotly anticipated speech on Monday. Can the shadow chancellor walk the tightrope of offering optimism without over-promising? These...
2023-10-051h 00Political CurrencySuella, conference mayhem and a mystery turd...Suella Braverman has caused a row this week after her controversial comments on Britain’s immigration policy. Ed and George argue over whether she took the right approach. The Conservative party prepares to head off to its conference. Why is this a critical moment for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak?Is Manchester mayor Andy Burnham’s support for HS3 a gift to Sunak, and a disaster for HS2?And why did George and David Cameron have to scoop a turd out of Rupert Murdoch’s pool?Email: questions@politic...
2023-09-2848 minPolitical CurrencySunak cuts the ‘green crap’Is Boris Johnson the real target of Rishi Sunak’s rollback of green policies? George reveals there is a split in the Conservative party over rumours that the government will abandon its HS2 expansion. The Bank of England leaves interest rates unchanged - should we be surprised? And why we should be paying attention to the escalating row over the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.ukFollow us on social media: @polcurrencyProducers: Rosie StopherProduction Manager: Flick HeathExecutive Pr...
2023-09-2148 minPolitical CurrencyHS2 in doubt, China spies and the triple lockAs Jeremy Hunt scrambles for pre-election tax cuts, the northern leg of HS2 is under threat and pensioners are facing a smaller raise in payments than they were expecting. Is the Chancellor making mistakes that will cost his party an important support base? And pressure is mounting on Rishi Sunak over allegations of a Chinese spy in parliament, but that's far from his only problem - with oil prices soaring, how can the Prime Minister make sure he keeps his inflation pledge?In this first episode of Political Currency, old rivals Ed Balls and George Osborne join...
2023-09-1444 minPolitical CurrencyIntroducing... Political CurrencyWelcome to Political Currency! Before we bring you our first episode this Thursday, 14th September, we thought we'd tell you what our podcast is all about.Ed Balls and George Osborne will take you behind closed doors into the rooms where decisions are made. Having battled it out across the despatch box, the former Chancellor and shadow chancellor are now meeting in the studio to discuss the decisions that affect the nation’s pockets. Our frenemies have the knowledge and experience to explain how good politics follows the economics - and expose how the po...
2023-09-1115 min