One year in opposition

One year in opposition

Author: Financial Times July 25, 2025 Duration: 34:58

As MPs head back to their constituencies for the summer, the Political Fix panel reflects on the year in opposition for Kemi Badenoch and her Conservative party. Host George Parker is joined by Robert Shrimsley to discuss their exclusive interview with the party leader, along with Anna Gross and Jim Pickard to talk Reform, the right-wing agenda, and the rhetoric that some fear could stoke a repeat of last summer's riots.


* The figure referenced regarding £45bn cost of net zero comes from the IFG (Institute for Government) not the IFS (Institute for Fiscal Studies), and the website for the new party founded by Jeremy Corbyn is yourparty.uk.


Follow George on Bluesky or X: @georgewparker.bsky.social, @GeorgeWParker; Robert @robertshrimsley, @robertshrimsley.bsky.social; Jim @pickardje.bsky.social; Anna @AnnaSophieGross


What did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.com  


Want more? Free links:   

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch says she is Britain’s Javier Milei 


Jeremy Corbyn sets up ‘Your Party’ to attract leftwing voters from Labour

  

Starmer, Farage and the fight to own fairness


Nigel Farage pledges to deport serious offenders


Pressure grows to shut Blackpool asylum hotel over safety concerns


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Presented by George Parker, and produced by Clare Williamson. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa. 


Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com


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Every Friday, the team behind Political Fix gathers to make sense of the week's political turbulence. This isn't just a recap of headlines; it's a deep, often lively conversation that pulls back the curtain on how decisions are really made in Westminster and beyond. You'll hear from the Financial Times journalists who are actually there, in the corridors and committee rooms, paired with expert voices who provide crucial context. Together, they untangle complex policy debates, analyse the shifting alliances, and question the strategies defining Britain's future. The result is a clear-eyed, authoritative look at the forces shaping the nation, delivered with the FT's signature rigor and insight. Tuning into this podcast feels like gaining access to a private briefing, one that prioritizes substance over noise. It’s for anyone who wants to move past the soundbites and understand the real stories and personalities driving the political agenda. New episodes arrive weekly, offering a consistent and essential perspective on a landscape that never stops moving.
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