Judgement Day For Starmer

Judgement Day For Starmer

Author: Times Radio April 20, 2026 Duration: 34:40

Keir Starmer will blame the civil service for the vetting failures behind Peter Mandelson's appointment - but will his defence stand up to scrutiny?


Hugo unpacks the politics of the day with Seb Payne and Libby Purves. 


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


Hugo Rifkind hosts Politics Unpacked, a daily podcast from Times Radio that goes beyond the headlines. Each episode is a conversation designed to make sense of the political landscape, focusing not just on the obvious stories of the day but also on the underlying forces and ideas that often get overlooked. Hugo brings in colleagues from The Times and The Sunday Times, offering a range of expert perspectives and insider analysis that you won't find elsewhere. The tone is informed and engaging, breaking down complex topics into digestible discussions without resorting to partisan shouting. It’s for anyone who wants to understand the ‘why’ behind the news, not just the ‘what’. You’ll hear thoughtful debate, unexpected connections, and a clear-eyed look at how power really operates. This isn't a recap of soundbites; it's a proper unpacking of the issues that shape our world. The podcast is released each weekday, mirroring the live radio show's schedule, providing a portable and on-demand way to stay informed. Tune in for a smarter take on current affairs, where the conversation is always more nuanced than the morning papers might suggest.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Politics Unpacked
Podcast Episodes
Immigration, Student Loans, and Reform's Blue Box [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:49
Is there an economic cost to falling net-migration? Will there be another government U-turn on student loans? And does Andrea Jenkyns' blue box look more like a biscuit tin? Hugo unpacks the politics of the day with Matt…
PMQs: The Last One Before The By-Election [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:30
In a rowdy session of PMQs before the Gorton and Denton by-election, Keir Starmer attacks both the Greens and Reform - but Kemi Badenoch accuses Labour of being the "paedo-defenders party". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com…
MPs Debate Former Prince Andrew [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:11
The House of Commons has long steered clear of debating the royal family - until today. MPs have been told they are free to discuss Prince Andrew, following his withdrawal from public royal duties, but what are the rules…
Will SEND be Labour's Next Rebellion? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:55
The government hopes to tackle the sensitive and costly system for children with special education needs and disabilities (SEND) in England - but will Labour MPs support the reforms, or force Starmer into yet another U-t…
What Andrew's Arrest Means For The Monarchy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:57
The royal family faces its biggest crisis in decades following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who has denied wrongdoing. Does this weaken the monarchy, or has the King done enough to separate himself from his…
Former Prince Andrew Arrested By Police [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:29
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct whilst in public office. He's the first senior Royal figure to be taken into custody in modern history. He denies wrongdoing. Hugo Rifkind unpacks t…
Reform Without Farage's Fireworks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:39
Robert Jenrick sets out Reform’s economic case aiming to make the party credible. But without Farage on the stage, is it losing its radical edge? Hugo unpacks the politics of the day with Janice Turner and Robert Crampto…
Reform Team, Assemble [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:59
The Reform UK 'shadow cabinet' has assembled. Nigel Farage has appointed Robert Jenrick, Suella Braverman and Zia Yusuf to key roles - but will voters be convinced that the party is truly a government-in-waiting?Hugo Rif…
Starmer's Stay Of Execution [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:42
Cabinet ministers believe Sir Keir Starmer may now survive beyond May because Labour's leadership contenders are too busy squabbling to unite behind a successor. But can the PM get through the next few months without ano…
Starmer Seeks Relief On The World Stage [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:25
Sir Keir Starmer has survived to the end of a torrid week - will he find solace focusing on the internatonal agenda?Ed Vaizey unpacks the politics of the day with Alys Denby and Michael Binyon. Hosted on Acast. See acast…