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Nigel Farage tries to ‘take back control’

Jul 7, 202616 minSummary

In this emergency episode of Political Fix, guest host Miranda Green and senior Financial Times journalists Robert Shrimsley and George Parker analyze Nigel Farage’s surprise decision to resign as an MP and immediately trigger a by-election in his Clacton constituency. The panel discusses how this maneuver serves as a preemptive strike against an ongoing parliamentary inquiry into his finances. While the move allows Farage to seize control of the news cycle, the hosts explore the significant risks involved, including the possibility that he could end up appearing desperate or rattled if the by-election becomes a prolonged, repetitive distraction. The discussion highlights the uncertainty surrounding how other political parties will respond—specifically whether the Conservatives will field a candidate or boycott the contest to deny Farage the attention he seeks. Furthermore, the episode examines the contrast between Farage’s focus on his own financial controversies and the socioeconomic realities of Clacton, which includes one of England's most impoverished neighborhoods. Ultimately, the hosts remain skeptical about whether this gamble will strengthen Farage’s position or lead to a long, damaging summer of scrutiny that complicates his long-term political strategy.

Power to the North: Burnham’s big idea

Jul 3, 202643 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, the hosts analyze Andy Burnham’s ambitious vision for the future of British politics, centering on his proposal for a major shift in devolution. Burnham intends to create a Number 10 of the North in Manchester, aiming to strip power away from Whitehall and transfer decision-making authority to local mayors and councils. The panel explores the potential benefits of this strategy, such as greater regional autonomy in areas like transport and housing, alongside the significant logistical hurdles and risks of government inefficiency. The discussion also delves into the skepticism surrounding this approach, questioning whether the public shares this focus on regional governance or if they remain more concerned with immediate bread-and-butter issues. The contributors debate the fiscal reality of these plans, examining whether they rely on genuine economic growth or merely represent a nostalgic, state-interventionist model. Finally, the episode covers the looming pressures of defense spending commitments and the ongoing speculation regarding a potential political return for David Miliband. The hosts provide a thoughtful analysis of the tensions between national agenda-setting and local accountability, questioning how a future administration might navigate these complex structural changes.

Live special: Ten years after Brexit

Jun 25, 202657 minSummary

In this live special episode of Political Fix, host Lucy Fisher and a panel of Financial Times journalists mark the tenth anniversary of the Brexit referendum by evaluating its long-term economic and political legacy. The discussion features political editor George Parker, markets columnist Katie Martin, economics correspondent Delphine Strauss, and political columnist Stephen Bush, who collectively examine whether the UK has truly moved past the worst of the transition. The panel reaches a broad consensus that the economic consequences, including a significant impact on GDP and reduced business investment, have been profound and largely negative. While some minor regulatory flexibilities have emerged, the experts argue these do not offset the structural costs of leaving the European single market. The conversation also explores the evolving geopolitical landscape, noting that both the UK and the EU face new challenges—such as the rise of global trade blocs and defense instability—that may necessitate a closer, incremental rapprochement. Ultimately, the speakers suggest that while full re-entry remains off the table due to political and public sensitivities, a more pragmatic, gradual integration is the most plausible pathway for the UK to regain lost economic momentum and strengthen its future prosperity.

Can anyone challenge Andy Burnham for PM?

Jun 23, 202635 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, the hosts analyze the political climate surrounding Andy Burnham as he appears poised for a coronation to Downing Street. While minor contenders have emerged, the discussion highlights the overwhelming support Burnham has already secured among Labour MPs, rendering a competitive leadership contest unlikely. The panel examines the internal dynamics of the party, noting the intense jockeying for position as colleagues scramble for roles in a potential new cabinet. The conversation shifts to the significant challenges facing a future Burnham administration, particularly regarding personnel decisions and policy priorities. The hosts debate potential candidates for Chancellor—including West Streeting, Ed Miliband, and Yvette Cooper—and discuss the difficult trade-offs between public spending, fiscal rules, and economic growth. They also explore the broader context of political churn in the UK, questioning whether the instability recently seen within the Conservative Party could become a recurring issue for Labour. Finally, the team assesses how Burnham might aim to set a distinctive tone early in his tenure, potentially through infrastructure announcements or welfare reform, while navigating the persistent calls from opposition figures for a fresh electoral mandate.

Exit Starmer, enter Burnham

Jun 22, 202624 minSummary

In this special edition of Political Fix, host Lucy Fisher joins Financial Times political editors George Parker and Jim Pickard to analyze the sudden resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Recorded in the heat of Westminster, the episode captures the intense atmosphere following Starmer's emotional departure from Downing Street, which followed a period of political isolation and a loss of support from both his cabinet and the parliamentary party. The discussion centers on the rapid ascent of Andy Burnham as the likely successor. The hosts explore the potential challenges ahead for Burnham, noting that he may enter Number 10 relatively untested and with a policy agenda that lacks granular detail. They also examine the broader implications of this leadership transition, including the impact on market stability and the potential for a new cabinet shake-up. Throughout the conversation, the panel reflects on the instability of British politics, the shrinking of the political center, and the outsized influence of social media and opinion polling. Ultimately, the team assesses Starmer’s legacy, acknowledging his role in reshaping the Labour Party while debating his effectiveness as a communicator and a leader.

Unseating Starmer: Burnham’s next move

Jun 19, 202640 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, host Lucy Fisher and her colleagues from the Financial Times, George Parker and Stephen Bush, alongside Northern England correspondent Jen Williams, analyze the political earthquake triggered by Andy Burnham’s landslide victory in the Makerfield by-election. With a majority of over 9,000 and securing more than 50% of the vote, Burnham has effectively positioned himself as the primary challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The panel discusses the sense of inevitability surrounding a potential leadership transition, exploring whether Starmer will face a messy, forced removal or if a managed, dignified exit can be negotiated to preserve party stability. The conversation delves into the composition of a prospective Burnham cabinet, weighing the influence of key allies like Louise Haig and Lucy Powell against the strategic risks of appointing figures such as Ed Miliband to the Treasury. Beyond the tactical maneuvering, the hosts examine Burnham’s "Makerfield test"—a governing philosophy built on public control and re-industrialization—while questioning how he can balance these ambitious, optimistic promises with the harsh economic realities and spending constraints currently facing the country.

Makerfield or bust: Burnham goes for broke

Jun 12, 202645 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, host Lucy Fisher and Financial Times correspondents Jennifer Williams and Jim Picard report from a pub in the Makerfield constituency to examine the political temperature ahead of a historic by-election. The discussion centers on the high-stakes contest between Labour candidate Andy Burnham and the Reform Party, a battle that could significantly impact the future of the Labour leadership. The hosts analyze the shifting mood among voters, noting a transition from political apathy to active anger. They explore how both Burnham and Reform are vying for the support of working-class voters by positioning themselves as the most authentic, local choice. The episode highlights the gendered dimensions of the electorate, with Reform drawing significant interest from male voters while Labour maintains a stronger foothold among women. Additionally, the team discusses the impact of recent controversies, including a legal case regarding developer funding that has been weaponized against Burnham, and the challenge of navigating national issues like immigration and public trust. Ultimately, the episode provides a nuanced look at the volatile political landscape, underscoring the deep skepticism voters hold toward the political establishment.

The Nowak murder: when tragedy meets politics

Jun 5, 202645 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, the hosts examine the intense political fallout surrounding the murder of eighteen-year-old Henry Nowak. The discussion centers on how various political factions have attempted to capitalize on the tragedy, specifically highlighting the controversial response from Reform UK’s Nigel Farage. The panel explores the tensions between the victim's family, who have pleaded for a focus on systemic issues like knife crime, and political leaders who have used the incident to debate the state of policing, racial disparities, and the influence of diversity and inclusion policies. The hosts provide critical insight into how social media dynamics and the rise of right-wing fringe parties are reshaping British political discourse, often pulling mainstream leaders into reactionary positions. Beyond the immediate tragedy, the episode shifts to the broader pressures facing the government, touching on the potential for electoral reform. The panelists debate whether the current first-past-the-post system remains viable in an increasingly fragmented political landscape and analyze the growing momentum behind calls for proportional representation. Throughout the conversation, the team maintains a focus on the structural shifts within UK politics and the ongoing challenges of maintaining public trust in democratic institutions.

Should Labour heed Tony Blair?

May 29, 202638 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, host Lucy Fisher joins political commentators Robert Shrimsley, Anna Gross, and Stephen Bush to analyze a lengthy essay recently published by former Prime Minister Tony Blair. The panel explores Blair’s critique of the current state of British politics, specifically focusing on his argument that Labour and other parties are too preoccupied with personality and social media presence rather than substantive policy programs. The discussion delves into several key themes from Blair’s work, including the vital importance of economic growth as a precursor to social justice, his skepticism regarding the current trajectory of the Labour Party, and his controversial views on welfare reform and the UK's relationship with the European Union. The hosts reflect on how Blair’s intervention has triggered a sharp response from potential Labour leadership hopefuls like Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham. Furthermore, the episode examines the rise of the political party Restore, led by Rupert Lowe, and considers whether this movement—supported by an aggressive digital strategy—poses a legitimate challenge to Reform UK and the broader political landscape. Ultimately, the panel weighs whether Blair’s perspective offers necessary home truths or if it reflects an out-of-touch approach to contemporary British challenges.

Game on: All eyes on Makerfield by-election

May 22, 202645 minSummary

In this episode of Political Fix, host Lucy Fisher and a panel of experts, including George Parker, Robert Shrimsley, and Jem Williams, analyze the high-stakes Makerfield by-election set for June 18th. The discussion centers on the pivotal candidacy of Andy Burnham, whose potential victory is viewed as a high-risk, high-reward move for the Labour Party. If Burnham succeeds, he could emerge as a serious contender for Prime Minister; if he fails, the party faces significant uncertainty regarding its future leadership and electoral viability against the Reform party. The panel explores the "Makerfield effect," noting how the constituency's political climate is forcing Burnham to navigate difficult policy compromises regarding Europe, immigration, and fiscal rules—challenges previously faced by the current leadership. The discussion also touches on Burnham’s political identity, his evolution from a Westminster insider to a prominent regional mayor, and the contrast between his "vibe-based" populist appeal and the more traditional political strategies of his rivals. Ultimately, the episode provides a deep dive into the internal dynamics of the Labour Party, the significance of regional leadership, and the broader existential question of how the party can regain momentum in an increasingly volatile political landscape.