Shabana Mahmood: Racism, Asylum and Me

Shabana Mahmood: Racism, Asylum and Me

Author: BBC Radio 4 November 20, 2025 Duration: 49:07

Why is the Home Secretary warning against leaving space for "darker forces"?

Shabana Mahmood sits down with Nick off the back of announcing sweeping changes to the asylum system in the UK.

Why did she decide to quote explicit racial abuse in the House of Commons? And how does she intend to avoid "ceding the territory of asylum to the far right"?

The Home Secretary reflects on how her Muslim faith plays a part in her job and sense of public service. And she reflects on the "humiliation" of the Downing Street briefing chaos.

Producer: Daniel Kraemer Research: Chloe Desave Sound: Ged Sudlow and Hal Haines Editor: Jonathan Brunert


Behind the headlines and soundbites, what really forms the convictions of those in power? On Political Thinking with Nick Robinson, the veteran BBC broadcaster sits down for a different kind of political dialogue. This isn't about rapid-fire questioning or chasing the day's news cycle. Instead, each episode offers an extended, thoughtful conversation with a single influential figure. You'll hear from prime ministers and protest leaders, cabinet members and campaigners, alongside voices from business, unions, and international politics. They all join Nick in the studio to explore a more personal question: what experiences, ideas, and beliefs actually shaped their political thinking? The result is a series of revealing portraits that go beyond policy to understand the person behind the public role. Produced by BBC Radio 4, this podcast provides a rare space for depth and reflection, allowing listeners to grasp the human motivations driving our political landscape. Tune in for conversations that are both relaxed and profoundly insightful, shedding light on how our world is shaped one perspective at a time.
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