Whitehall Sources

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, the hosts delve into the recent Spring Statement delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, analyzing its implications for the UK economy. They discuss the halving of the growth forecast, the government's economic strategies, and the potential political fallout from welfare cuts. The conversation highlights the importance of business confidence, the ri...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, the hosts consider the recent overhaul of the UK welfare system, discussing the implications of proposed benefit cuts and the political dynamics surrounding them. They explore the challenges faced by individuals reliant on welfare, the impact of mental health on employment, and the reactions from the Labour Party and the public. The conversation hi...

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

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, the hosts discuss the significant political upheaval caused by Donald Trump, particularly in relation to Ukraine and NATO. We're joined by Mike Martin, Liberal Democrat MP, member of the Defence Select Committee and senior visiting fellow of War Studies at Kings College London. We explore the implications of Trump's actions on global politics, the...

Calum, Kirsty and Jo discuss the once in a generation challenge of peace. Sir Keir Starmer has announced an increase in defence spending, and now he's off to see President Trump in Washington. What is the best he can hope to achieve? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner, delve into the pressing issues surrounding online harms, particularly focusing on the risks posed by social media to children. We're joined by Jess Asato, Labour MP for Lowestoft. They discuss the need for stricter regulations, the role of parents and schools in safeguarding children, and the le...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, the hosts are joined by Sir David Manning to discuss the significant shifts in global politics following President Trump's pursuit of a Russia/Ukraine peace deal. They explore the implications for NATO, European security, and the dynamics of US-UK relations, while also addressing the internal tensions within the Trump administration and the role of...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner delve into the current political landscape in Westminster. They discuss the leadership styles of Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch, focusing on Starmer's perceived lack of principles under pressure and Badenoch's recent performance at PMQs. The conversation delves into the current political landscape, foc...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner, delve into the current political landscape, focusing on key issues such as Donald Trump's controversial proposal for Gaza, the ongoing Chagos Islands dispute, and insights from a new book on Keir Starmer's leadership. The conversation highlights the complexities of international relations, the c...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and - joining the podcast for 2025 and beyond - Jo Tanner, discuss Rachel Reeves' recent speech on economic growth, focusing on the controversial Heathrow expansion and the Labour Party's growth strategy. The conversation explores the implications of the speech, the challenges facing the government, and the potentia...

Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss the recent Southport stabbings and the subsequent national inquiry into the failures of the Prevent strategy. They analyze the political implications of the tragedy, the responses from key political figures, and the broader societal impact of such events.  Then we turn to the inauguration of President Trump. Republican Amy Koch discuss the recent in...

Kirsty and Calum are back to assess Labour's start to 2025. Rachel Reeves is the Chancellor but for how long? Tulip Siddiq is the former anti corruption minister forced out of office as she's under investigation for corruption and denies wrongdoing. Plus, why can't Keir Starmer manage the curve balls of politics? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum McDonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss the ongoing issues surrounding the Post Office inquiry, the WASPI women, and the broader implications for political accountability and integrity. They are joined by James Arbuthnot, a key figure in the campaign for justice for sub-postmasters wrongfully prosecuted due to a faulty IT system. The conversatio...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, host Calum MacDonald and guest Kirsty Buchanan engage with Ambassador Peter Ford, who shares his insights on the current situation in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime. The conversation explores the implications of the regime's collapse, the rise of ISIS and Al-Qaeda, and the consequences of international interventions. Ford emphasises t...

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss Keir Starmer's recent speech outlining the Labour Party's new foundations, missions, and milestones. They delve into the six specific milestones set by Starmer's government, analysing their feasibility and the implications for public accountability. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by...

Calum and Kirsty are joined by former Special Advisors Nikki Da Costa and Sam White to discuss the process to come regarding the much-talked-about Assisted Dying Bill - what's in store? Who can say what? And who will say what? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This conversation reflects on the life and legacy of John Prescott, a significant figure in British politics and the Labour Party. The hosts, Calum MacDonald, Kirsty Buchanan, and Adam Boulton, share personal anecdotes and insights about Prescott's character, his role in the New Labour movement, and his impact on political discourse. They discuss his authenticity, sense of justice, and the unique...

In this podcast episode, former Health Department Special Adviser, Ed Jones, joins Isabel Hardman - Assistant Editor of The Spectator and author of Fighting for Life - The Twelve Battles that Made Our NHS, and the Struggle for Its Future - along with Calum and Kirsty to discuss the current state of the NHS under the Labour government, focusing on Wes Streeting's recent announcements regarding refo...

Donald Trump is set to return to the White House, having promised action on issues including immigration, the economy and the war in Ukraine. He looks likely to enjoy plenty of support for his political agenda in Congress after his Republican Party regained control of the Senate. In his victory speech, Trump vowed: "I will govern by a simple motto: Promises made, promises kept. We’re going to keep...

In our first ever crossover episode with the Holyrood Sources podcast, we assess the implications of the UK Government budget. The first section of both podcasts features former advisers from across the political spectrum. The podcasts then return to their own list of guests and commentators and analysts. Search Holyrood Sources to listen to our sister podcast. GUEST LIST STEPHEN FLYNN, SNP Westmi...

Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss various pressing political issues in the UK, including prison overcrowding, the Labour Party's involvement in US elections, and the upcoming budget. Kirsty shares insights from her experience in the Ministry of Justice, emphasising the complexities of the criminal justice system and the need for reform. The conversation also touches on the political impl...

Calum and Kirsty discuss recent budget leaks and their implications, the ongoing political controversy surrounding Taylor Swift's concert, and reflect on the legacy of Alex Salmond following his passing. They explore the impact of Salmond on Scottish politics and the broader UK landscape, emphasising his unique ability to engage with diverse audiences and drive significant political change. The co...

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss the mounting expectations surrounding the upcoming UK budget, the implications of Sue Gray's resignation, and the unexpected twists in the Conservative leadership contest. They explore the challenges facing the party, including issues of unity and direction, and the potential impact of the leadership debates on the p...

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan delve into the current political landscape, focusing on the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing Conservative leadership contest in the UK. They analyse the speeches of the four candidates vying for leadership, discussing their strengths, weaknesses, and the implications for the party's future. The conversa...

Calum and Kirsty are joined by Jo Tanner who's nursing some Lemsip after Labour Party Conference. We delve into the recent Labour Party conference, exploring its significance, the challenges faced by the new government, and the public's perception of their performance. Kirsty and Joe provide insights into the conference atmosphere, the handling of controversies, and the implications of key policy...