Newscast
The BBC's daily news podcast, Newscast dives into the day's biggest news stories so you're never out of your depth. It picks the brains of BBC News experts, covering the latest news and developments in politics in Westminster and beyond. Hosted by trusted journalists including Adam Fleming, Chris Mason, Laura Kuenssberg, and Paddy O'Connell. Available seven days a week, with a TV version on BBC One.
Episodes
The Keir Starmer Resignation Interview: Analysis
Henry is in to talk about his interview with the outgoing prime minister Sir Keir Starmer.What was it like in the room, what was he really saying to Andy Burnham, and has he come to terms with losing his job?The three of them discuss all that and let you in behind the scenes on the first interview Starmer has done since the announcement that’s he will resign.You can now listen to Newscast on a sma
The Keir Starmer Resignation Interview
Keir Starmer has given his first interview since stepping down to Henry Zeffman.In it, he speaks about the "intensely personal decision” which was taken “ultimately” when he went to Chequers with his wife and children.
Here's the full interview. We're recording the normal Saturday episode with Laura, Paddy and Henry and that will be in the feed as normal later today.
The Story Of Andy Burnham's Return To Westminster - Live At Crossed Wires Festival
Andy Burnham has gone from metro mayor to prime minister-in-waiting.When did he decide to make the move against Starmer, and how’s he done it?Chris Mason and Faisal Islam are in Sheffield for the Crossed Wires podcast festival for a special episode in which they track the journey from London to Manchester and back again.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just
Teen Rapists Face Custody After Appeal Overturns "Lenient" Sentence
Today, two teenage boys who raped girls in Hampshire have been given four years' detention after the Court of Appeal changed their sentences. A third boy’s youth rehabilitation order was left unchanged.UK correspondent, Daniel Sandford was at the court and explains the reasoning behind the judges’ decision.Plus, Morgan McSweeney, the elusive former chief of staff to Sir Keir Starmer has given his
How Did Donald Trump Make $1.4 Billion From Crypto?
Today we look at how President Trump made more than $1 billion from cryptocurrency in his first year back in office.The President’s mandatory financial report revealed that he also earned millions from real estate and Trump-themed items. But the White House denies that he is profiting from the presidency. Alex and James are joined by chief North America correspondent, Gary O’Donoghue.Plus, we look
What Does It Cost To Keep The UK Safe?
Today, Keir Starmer has unveiled the long awaited defence investment plan which promises an extra £15 billion to help equip the armed forces for the future. Despite being one of the difficult issues which ultimately helped bring about his resignation, the prime minister seems to hope the plan will form a part of his legacy.But what will it fund and where has the money come from? Alex, James, Chris
What's Andy Burnham's Plan For Number 10 (North)?
Today, Andy Burnham has set out his vision for the country should he become Prime Minister, including plans like setting up a ‘No10 North’ in Manchester.He said he wants to ‘take power out of the centre’ by transferring some powers from Westminster to the regions, and by extending devolution in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. He also promised to deliver the biggest programme of council house
The Starmer-Burnham Defence Handover
Today the focus is on new details expected in the long overdue Defence Investment Plan, set to be announced next week.Victoria Derbyshire is in for Laura again. She, Paddy and Henry Zeffman discuss a move toward new kit like drones, and away from battleships.They also look at how much Andy Burnham may have been involved in the plans, and whether he’s prepared on defence.And, last week we discussed
What's Andy Burnham's Economic Plan?
Today we look at what Andy Burnham’s plan for the UK economy is. We reveal what he’s expected to say in a speech on the economy on Monday, who the people advising him on it are, and who he might make chancellor.Victoria Derbyshire is in for Laura. She and Paddy are joined by economics editor Faisal Islam, who’s been looking at what a Burnham Treasury might look like.You can now listen to Newscast
The King (Sort Of) Reveals His Finances
Today, King Charles has become the first monarch ever to reveal their tax bill: £12.9 million. The King has broken royal precedent by publishing some of his finances, revealing that he is in the top 100 of UK taxpayers. But we still don’t know much about his income, or how this tax bill was calculated. The accounts also show that the main source of annual public funding for the Royals will nearly
Why Is This Heatwave So Much Worse?
Today is the hottest June day on record in the UK. A temperature of 36.4C has been recorded in Somerset. This beats the previous record, set just yesterday. A red weather warning for extreme heat has been extended into Friday for parts of the country, and at least six NHS trusts in England have declared critical incidents. Adam is joined by the BBC’s Climate Editor, Justin Rowlatt, and Professor E
What The UK's Biggest Maternity Review Tells Us About Maternity Care
Today, the largest review of it's kind in NHS history has found major failings in maternity care at a hospital trust in Nottingham. The report found that hundreds of babies and mothers died or were harmed due to the “deep-rooted, systemic failures”.Leaders at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust have apologised, and the Health Secretary says the government will respond by taking “immediat
Will Anyone Challenge Burnham For PM?
Today, Andy Burnham is the front-runner to be the next prime minister - so what happens now? New MP for Makerfield Andy Burnham is currently expected to be the only candidate in the race to replace outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Will he run unopposed?Former Defence Minister Al Carns and Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones are both considering leadership bids, but it is unclea
Keir Starmer Resigns as Prime Minister
Today, Keir Starmer has resigned as Prime Minister. Speaking outside number 10 on Monday morning the Prime Minister said he accepted that his party does not believe he is best placed to lead the country at the next general election. In an emotional speech he also thanked his wife and said he wanted to be the "best dad I can to my beautiful children".Meanwhile, Andy Burnham has arrived in Westminst
Why Keir Starmer’s Resignation Looks More Likely Than Ever
Today, we look at strong indications the prime minister may be on the verge of resigning.Cabinet Secretary Peter Kyle’s message this morning was that he is reflecting on the "political realities". It’s a departure from the not ‘he’ll fight on’ message of 2026 up to now.Henry Zeffman joins Laura and Paddy in the studio to look at the possible timetable of a resignation and the appointment of a repl
Fight or Go? Keir Starmer Considers His Next Move
Insiders have told Laura that the Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has joined a list of people who’ve told Keir Starmer to set out a timetable for his departure. He's at Chequers - the PM’s retreat - considering his next move as talk of fighting a leadership challenge quietens. Laura and Paddy unpack the shift in mood, and question whether Andy Burnham can appeal to voters outside the North West. Y
Andy Burnham Wins In Makerfield, So What Happens Now?
Today, Labour’s Andy Burnham wins the Makerfield by election - so how could we see a challenge to Keir Starmer as Labour Party leader?Burnham won almost 25,000 votes, beating Reform UK's Robert Kenyon by more than 9,000 votes. In his victory speech Andy Burnham said "Everyone knows that politics isn't working, and has previously said he would seek to enter any Labour leadership contest. So what ha
Who Won The US-Iran Deal?
Today, the US and Iran have an agreement which extends the ceasefire between the two countries, and is now signed by US President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet talks us through what the deal includes, what it means for the strait of Hormuz and oil prices, and where the sticking points may be. Chief North America Correspondent Gary O’
Starmer’s Warning To Andy Burnham
Today, Keir Starmer returns home from the G7 with a warning to Andy Burnham not to rush into triggering a leadership contest if he wins in Makerfield tomorrow.In an interview with Chris, the Prime Minister said that a leadership contest would be bad for the country but reaffirmed his intention to fight any challenges to his leadership.Tomorrow’s by-election in Makerfield still stands in the way of
How Will The Social Media Ban Change Children’s Lives?
Today, what difference will banning social media make to children’s lives?Speaking the day after the announcement of a ban on social media for under-16s the education secretary speaks to Adam in the Newscast studio. They discuss; if children need to be bored more whether it’s OK for parents to watch youtube with their children and whether the school day should be longer? You can now listen to News
Social Media Ban For Under-16s
Today, the prime minister has announced under-16s will be banned from social media. Speaking at Downing Street Keir Starmer announced if passed in parliament the ban will come into force by spring 2027. Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X are among the platforms affected - but not WhatsApp or Signal. So will the ban achieve what the government says it will? Adam and Henry are join
Royal Marines Take Control Of Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker
Royal Marine Commandos have boarded a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker in the English Channel in the early hours of Sunday morning.Marines, joined by National Crime Agency officers, with the support of the RAF, intercepted and boarded the vessel in a six-hour operation - the first operation of its kind by UK armed forces.The vessel, Smyrtos, will be held and monitored off the south coast of England
By-Electioncast: Could Restore Britain Help Andy Burnham Win?
Paddy is back from holiday and he’s also back from Ashton-in-Makerfield.He joins Laura to discuss a new poll that suggests Rupert Lowe’s Restore Britain could steal enough votes from Reform UK to hand Andy Burnham a win.Luke Tryl from More In Common - the pollsters behind the research - also joins with Joe Pike who’s sat in on a focus group they ran.A full list of candidates and loads more informa
The Keir Starmer Interview: The Analysis
Today, Adam and Chris discuss Chris’ interview with the prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer. The Prime Minister sat down for an extended conversation with Chris following the resignation of his defence secretary John Healey yesterday over disagreements about the government’s new Defence Investment Plan.It’s the latest blow to the Prime Minister following several high profile cabinet resignations last
The Keir Starmer Interview
Today, Chris speaks to Sir Keir Starmer, the prime minister, about the resignation of his defence secretary John Healey, his plans for the Defence Investment Plan, and whether or not he’ll fight a potential leadership election.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.
You can join our Ne
Why Has Defence Secretary John Healey Resigned?
Today, the UK Defence Secretary John Healey has resigned.In his resignation letter to the PM, Healey set out his reasons for leaving, telling the PM the defence investment plan "falls well short of what is required for defence and the country at this dangerous time”. The sixth minister to resign for Starmer’s cabinet in a month, and one of its most loyal, the question will now turn to what lies ah
Who’s Causing The Violence In Belfast?
Today, extra police are brought into Belfast and public transport is closing early, after a night of violence.The violence erupted after a knife attack in the city on Monday. The suspect has appeared in court charged with attempted murder, threatening to kill an NHS radiographer, and possession of a knife. Hadi Alodid, 30, was remanded in custody for four weeks and is due to re-appear in court via
What We Know About The Belfast Knife Attack So Far
Today, a Sudanese man in his 30s is being held on suspicion of attempted murder after a knife attack in North Belfast.Footage of the attack has been widely shared on social media. Politicians in Westminster and Stormont have appealed for calm while the police carry out their investigation, while some have called for faster transparency and information about the identity and immigration status of t
Jess Phillips On The Explicit Image Ban For Children
Today we hear from Labour MP Jess Phillips, who resigned from government in part over what she saw as its failure to act quicker on kids‘ online safety.One of the measures she was pushing for at the time was announced today. Sir Keir Starmer has told firms to either activate built-in features or update software to prevent children from taking, sending or viewing sexually explicit images on their p
David Lammy Tells JD Vance He's Wrong Over Immigration Comments
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has told the US Vice President JD Vance "he was wrong" to say mass migration was to blame for Henry Nowak's murder in a phone call.On this episode of Newscast, Laura, Henry and Joe discuss the relationship between the two of them, why that American politicians are talking so much about the UK and Europe.We also look at what’s taking the government so long to publi
Will Henry Nowak’s Murder Change Policing?
The murder of Henry Nowak has sparked another debate about so-called ‘two-tier policing’, in which people are treated differently by police based on their ethnicity.We look at whether it actually exists, what police guidance says, and whether the case might lead to changes in how police deal with reports of crime.Laura is joined by former BBC legal and home affairs correspondent and Labour home af
The Most Expensive World Cup Ever? (With Football Daily, Part 3)
We’ve got together with Americast and Football Daily for three special episodes on what could be the most political World Cup ever.How much will Donald Trump make it about him? Will the US-Iran war affect the tournament? And why are tickets so expensive?We tell you everything you need to know about what’s going on off the pitch.Anthony Zurcher and Marianna Spring join from Americast, and 5 Live fo
Will War Overshadow the World Cup? (With Football Daily, Part 2)
We’ve got together with Americast/Newscast and Football Daily for three special episodes on what could be the most political World Cup ever.How much will Donald Trump make it about him? Will the US-Iran war affect the tournament? And why are tickets so expensive?We tell you everything you need to know about what’s going on off the pitch.Anthony Zurcher and Marianna Spring join from Americast, and
Will This Be The Donald Trump World Cup? (With Football Daily, Part 1)
We’ve got together with Americast/Newscast and Football Daily for three special episodes on what could be the most political World Cup ever.How much will Donald Trump make it about him? Will the US-Iran war affect the tournament? And why are tickets so expensive?We tell you everything you need to know about what’s going on off the pitch.Anthony Zurcher and Marianna Spring join from Americast, and
Andy Burnham Says He Would Enter Labour Leadership Contest
Today, the first televised debate from the Makerfield by-election has taken place in a special edition of Question Time.Adam and Chris reunite after Question Time to discuss all the biggest moments, including Andy Burnham’s clearest confirmation yet that he will stand in a Labour leadership election - but will he trigger one? Plus, Alex and Faisal wrap up the biggest news stories of the week, incl
By-Electioncast: Chris Reports Back From Makerfield
Today, Chris tells Adam what it was like meeting Robert Kenyon, the Reform UK candidate in the Makerfield by-election and how he and Andy Burnham, the Labour candidate have responded to challenges about their track records on different key issues.They discuss the ongoing reaction to some of Robert Kenyon’s previous comments about women and whether Andy Burnham’s campaign message of “Change Labour.
Why Was Henry Nowak Handcuffed By Police As He Lay Dying?
Today, the Prime minister says he “felt sick” as he watched the body cam footage of a student who was handcuffed as he lay dying.The 18-year-old Southampton student Henry Nowak was handcuffed after Vickrum Digwa, 23, lied to police at the scene of the 2025 stabbing, claiming he had been the victim of a racist attack. Shabana Mahmood described the murder as an "an act of pure evil” and described bo
The Peter Mandelson Files (Again)
Today, more than 1000 pages of documents about Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the US have been published by the government.Adam, Chris and Joe get together to discuss what the files tell us about Peter Mandelson’s vetting process, his relationship with some of the government’s most senior figures and his thoughts on the Prime Minister’s leadership. Some of the files have been re
Nicola Sturgeon Interview: The Analysis
After Laura’s exclusive interview, she’s joined by Henry and Joe to discuss what Nicola Sturgeon had to say about her estranged husband Peter Murrell’s guilty plea to embezzling hundreds of thousands of pounds from the SNP - as well as the political and public reaction to her words.Hear the full length interview on the previous episode of Newscast.You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker.
Nicola Sturgeon speaks to the BBC
It's a controversy which has been hanging over the SNP for years - but on Monday former chief executive, Peter Murrell, admitted to embezzling more than £400,000 from the party. On this episode of Newscast, former first minister Nicola Sturgeon sits down with Laura for her first interview since her estranged husband pleaded guilty. Sturgeon, who was earlier arrested and released without charge, di
Labour's Essay Wars
Today, the week that the words flew - after Tony Blair wrote an essay saying Labour was "playing with fire" over the UK’s future and Starmer hit back in a Substack article. Laura and Joe are joined by James Lyons, the former Director of Communications to Keir Starmer, to discuss his time in Downing Street, the essays and articles published by leading Labour figures this week and what could happen
By-Electioncast: Old Tweets and New Essays
Today, we find out more about Reform’s candidate Robert Kenyon back story and why his old posts on social media are making headlines. Plus, what impact could Restore Britain have on the Reform UK vote and how Andy Burnham has outgrown Mayor of Greater Manchester. Adam is joined by Annabel Tiffin, political editor for BBC Northwest, Lara Spirit, the Deputy Political Editor for The Sunday Times, and
Why Can’t Young People Get Jobs?
Today, in his long awaited report, former minister Alan Milburn has said job and career opportunities for young people are ‘not growing, they’re shrinking’, with one in six set to be out of work, education or training in five years unless action is taken.He concluded that the education, health and welfare systems are no longer fit for purpose in preparing young people for adult life - with the ris
Tony Blair vs Labour?
Today, Sir Tony Blair has spoken to the Today programme about an almost 6,000 word essay in which he criticises the Labour government for focusing on politics rather than policy. Adam, Alex and Faisal discuss the arguments made by the former Prime Minister, plus how two would-be leadership contenders Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham (who still needs to fight and win a by-election if he wants to chal
Why Did Teenage Rapists Avoid Custody?
Today, the family of a teenage rape victim whose attackers were spared jail have told the BBC they hope the "correct outcome will prevail" -- after it was announced the sentences would be referred to the Court of Appeal.There was widespread criticism after three boys were handed youth rehabilitation orders in connection with the rape of two teenage girls in Hampshire. Sentencing guidelines state t
The Peter Murrell Embezzlement Controversy (Live At Hay Festival)
The former SNP chief executive has admitted embezzling more than £400,000 from the party between August 2010 and October 2022, using the money to buy jewellery, cosmetics and a motorhome. Adam Fleming and Alex Forsyth chat it all through with Patrick Maguire from The Times, in front of an audience at Hay Festival. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "
The Louise Casey Interview (Live at Hay Festival)
Today, Baroness Casey tells Newscast that the judge in the case of two boys who were spared jail after being found guilty of rape was "wrong". The boys were not given custodial sentences following their convictions for raping two girls in separate attacks in 2025 and 2024.Speaking to Adam and Alex at the Hay Festival, Louise Casey also discusses her career at the helm of some the UK’s biggest inqu
Could A Brexit Reset Mean A New Single Market? (Live At Hay Festival)
Today, Newscast is looking reports that the UK proposed establishing a single market for goods trade with the EU as part of the next phase of its Brexit reset. Plus, two weeks on from the results, what have the elections meant for Wales?Adam is joined by Zanny Minton Beddoes, editor of the Economist and Felicity Evans, host of Walescast live at the Hay book festival. Plus Emma Freud, host of The A
By-Electioncast: Everything You Need To Know About Makerfield
Today, the Makerfield by-election has been confirmed for June 18th 2026, and this is the first episode in a new mini-series following the contest as it gets underway. Adam is joined by Luke Tryl, director of More in Common UK, and Kevin Fitzpatrick, political reporter for BBC Radio Manchester, to delve deeper into Makerfield, and to look at how the race is shaping up with the candidates who have b
The Rachel Reeves "Fun" Tax Cuts
Today, the chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a series of measures aimed at reducing the costs for families in the summer holidays. Ticket prices for families at various attractions such as theme parks, zoos and museums will be cheaper during the summer holidays through a cut to VAT, the chancellor has said. The government didn’t however announce any major package of support aimed at energy co
Has The UK Softened Russia Oil Sanctions?
Today, the government announced a watering down of Russian oil sanctions as fuel prices rise from Iran war. Adam is joined by Chris and Faisal to discuss that, as well as the cut in fuel duty and Wes Streeting’s resignation speech in the House of Commons.And Emma Pinchbeck, CEO of the Climate Change Committee, speaks to Adam about a new report on climate adaptation in the UK. You can now listen to
The £100Bn HS2 Debacle
Today, its been revealed HS2 could cost up to £102.7bn and trains will be slower than first planned. It has been revealed trains will not start running until between 2036 and 2039, up to six years later than the most recent official target of 2033. As of March 2026, £44.2bn has already been spent on the programme. Adam and Faisal discuss how we have got to this point. And, the Metropolitan Police
Why Brexit Is Awkward For Andy Burnham
Today, we look at why the subject of Brexit is awkward for Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester Mayor who wants to be the Makerfield MP.He was doing a speech today in which he clarified his position on the issue.And Keir Starmer’s been out in front of the camera today with the same message - I’m not going anywhere.Adam and Chris are joined by political correspondent Alex Forsyth, and diplomatic co
Does Labour’s Leadership Race Mean A Battle Over Brexit?
In a speech at which he confirmed he would run to become Labour leader, Wes Streeting has said that he would ‘one day’ like the UK to rejoin the EU.Greater Manchester Mayor, who also wants to run, Andy Burnham has said similar things in the past, he’d first have to win a by-election in Makerfield - an area that voted to leave.So, are Labour going to go to war over the issue again? Does it put Burn
Q+A: Burnham Says He'd Save Labour, But Can He Win Makerfield?
Today we look at two Labour leadership hopefuls setting out their visions for the UK ahead of a Labour leadership contest that hasn’t even begun.Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham told the BBC he’d 'save' Labour, and Wes Streeting has confirmed that he would run in the event of a formal challenge to Keir Starmer.Before Burnham can run for leader, and therefore PM, he’s got to win the Makerfield
The Week: How Did Labour Get Here And Where Do They Go Now?
Today, we’re looking back on a week of Keir Starmer fighting for his job as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour party.Will Andy Burnham win his Westminster seat? What’s going on behind the scenes in Number 10? And who are the other Labour hopefuls eyeing a place in an eventual leadership race?Adam is joined by Ailbhe Rea, Political Editor at the New Statesmen, and Sienna Rodgers, Deputy Politi
Andy Burnham Makes His Move
Today, pressure is mounting on the PM as Wes Streeting resigned from his role as health secretary, and Josh Simons announced he would stand aside for Andy Burnham to have his seat.There are still some steps ahead before that happens. The National Executive Committee must select him as the candidate, and he would need to go ahead and win. Nonetheless, the party is in chaos and Starmer is facing the
Starmer Vs Streeting?
Today, the government has laid out their plans for new legislation in the King’s speech, amid speculation that Wes Streeting is going to launch a leadership challenge against Keir Starmer as soon as Thursday.It’s rumoured that Streeting wanted to wait in order to not distract from the speech, but the rising speculation has dominated headlines and the commons. What was actually in the King’s speech
Starmer Says He’s Staying
Today, Keir Starrmer has said he will “get on with governing” despite another day of increasing pressure on him to resign from the Labour party. Four ministers resigned on Tuesday, and more MPs have called for the Prime Minister to stand down. But so far no formal leadership contest has been triggered. Meanwhile more than 100 MPs are understood to have signed a statement backing the PM, saying "th
Labour MPs Move Against Starmer
Today, more Labour MPs have called for Keir Starmer to step down, but is an actual leadership challenge imminent?In a speech on Monday morning Keir Starmer vowed to prove his “doubters” wrong, but the number of Labour MPs calling him to go continues to rise. Dozens of MPs have urged Starmer either to step down immediately or set out a timetable for his departure. Adam, Chris and Alex discuss.You c
Electioncast: Could Catherine West Really Bring Down Keir Starmer?
Today, we look at a surpirsise move from Labour MP Catherine West. She’s called for cabinet ministers to challenge Keir Starmer's leadership - threatening to do so herself if they don't.Laura and Paddy are joined by Henry to discuss she is, why she’s doing it, and how dangerous it could be for the prime minister.They also look ahead to next week as the prime minister prepares to make a speech tomo
Electioncast: Is Keir Starmer on Borrowed Time?
Today, we look at what Labour’s pasting in the May elections means for Prime Minister Keir Starmer.He’s been out in London talking to Chris and insisting he’s not going anywhere but with more and more of his own party calling on him to resign, can he really stay?Chris joins Laura and Paddy to talk about their conversation and to give his assessment on the results now they’re inThey also look at St
Electioncast: The Winners And The Losers
Today, Labour suffered a historic loss in the Welsh Senedd elections coming in third behind Plaid Cymru and Reform UK.In Scotland, the SNP held onto it’s majority with second place too close to call between Labour and Reform as Newscast began recording. And in England, a bruising run of results continued for Labour, who lost more than a thousand council seats. Reform won more than 1400 councillors
Electioncast: The First Results Are In!
Today, the first results from the English local elections have been declared, with Reform UK surging and losses for Labour - with many more results still to come. Adam, Chris and Alex were joined by Luke Tryl, UK Director of More in Common, live on BBC Sounds to analyse the political picture that has emerged overnight. Counts in both Scotland and Wales are taking place on Friday. You can now liste
Electioncast: It’s Time To Vote!
Today, we are live as we count down to the Senedd, Holyrood and English local elections happening on Thursday.With less than 24 hours to go until the polls open, the parties are making their final efforts to win over voters across the UK.
Adam, Chris, Laura, Felicity and James put their heads together to give a rundown of what’s dominated the campaign trails and how that might shape the next fe
Is the US-Iran War Restarting?
Today, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says the US-Iran ceasefire "is not over", despite attacks in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday.Donald Trump's "Project Freedom" aims to use the US military to guide stranded cargo ships out of the Strait of Hormuz. But, Iran insists that it controls the strait - and yesterday fired missiles and drones at military and commercial ships, according to the US. Adam
LIVE At Castfest: The Brexit Campaign 10 Years On
In today’s episode, first recorded live at Castfest, Adam and Chris turn back the clock to 2016 and the lead up to the Brexit referendum.They discuss how the referendum came about, and their memories from the campaign trail. Plus Dr Katya Adler sends a special dispatch from a cake stand in Brussels!You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds t
Electioncast: The Mega May Run In
Today, we look at the biggest set of elections in the UK since the 2024 General Election.Laura and Paddy run through what the polls tell us, how insiders are feeling, and the challenges each of the parties face in different parts of Britain.Political correspondent Joe Pike joins to help, as well as reveal the insights you can gather from looking inside a communal bin.You can now listen to Newscast
Is Being Jewish Unsafe in the UK?
Today we look at how safe Jewish people feel and the political response to a string of violent incidents in which they’ve been targeted.It’s prompted a national conversation about antisemitism in the country among politicians and the public.Two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green, north London, on Wednesday and there have been multiple cases of arson on Jewish properties in recent weeks.Speci
Electioncast: What’s Happening In England?
Today, we look at the local authority elections in England.Adam, Chris and Alex explore the geography of the elections and who might do well where, the race for London’s councils and the challenges facing each of the parties as the campaigns enter their final week. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most
The Week: The Price Of The Iran War
Today, after a week of warning’s from the government over the financial impact of the war in Iran - is the reality starting to hit home?Adam, Chris and Faisal are joined by Ailbhe Rea Political Editor of the New Statesman to discuss how the financial effects could be felt all over the country? It comes after the Bank of England warns interest rates could rise this year following a “significant ene
What The King Did (And Didn’t) Say To Trump
Today, the King and Queen head to New York for the second part of their state visit to the US. We look at King Charles’ address to congress, what he said… and didn’t say, and if any of it is likely to have a lasting impact on US-UK relations.Adam is joined in the studio our diplomatic correspondent James Landale, and by Daniela Relph, senior royal correspondent who’s in New York with the King and
The Morgan McSweeney Evidence
Today, MPs have voted that Keir Starmer should not face an inquiry into whether he misled Parliament over the appointment of Lord Mandelson. MPs vote 335 to 223 against a Tory-led motion. During the debate, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said it's "very obvious" Starmer told the Commons things that were "not correct". No 10 accused the conservatives of a "desperate political stunt.Adam, Joe and Alex r
The King Arrives In The US, But Can He Mend The Special Relationship?
Today, the King has arrived to meet President Trump for the US state visit. His arrival comes as security concerns are heightened after a shooting during the White House correspondents dinner on Saturday.The visit is also happening at a time when the Prime Minister is having trouble at home. Sir Keir Starmer is set to face a vote by MPs on whether there should be an inquiry over his claims about t
BONUS! Live At Castfest: The Newscast Q&A!
Recorded live at the BBC’s Maida Vale studios, Adam, Chris and Henry get grilled by the audience at Castfest. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers.You can join our Newscast online community here: https://bbc.in/newscastdiscordGet in touch with Newscast by emailing newscast@bbc.co.uk or
Gunshots At Trump's Press Dinner
Today, Laura and Paddy talk about another incident where a gunman tried to enter an event attended by US President Donald Trump.A secret service agent’s bulletproof vest saved him from more serious injury, after he was shot.The president was quickly escorted to safety by the Secret Service, but questions have been raised about how he got so close, and about what it means for the King’s US visit ne
LIVE At Castfest: Could Trump Use The Falklands To Punish The UK?
Today, we look at a report that suggests the US could review its position on Britain's claim to the Falkland Islands.An internal Pentagon email reported by Reuters suggested the US was considering options to punish Nato allies it believed had failed to support its war on Iran.The options discussed also included seeking Spain's suspension from Nato over its opposition to the war. BBC News has not b
Electioncast: Will Another Week Of Starmer Drama Impact The Elections?
Today, Adam, Alex, James and Felicity look at the latest stories from the UK elections campaign trail. Why are public services at the top of the campaign agenda?What will it mean for Westminster if nationalist parties sweep the board?And why is Eluned Morgan explaining how to vote for her though the medium of canned cocktails?You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen
The Week: How Much Danger Is Keir Starmer In?
Today, Adam and Chris look back and assess how much danger Keir Starmer is in after another week of the Peter Mandelson saga? They are joined by Lara Spirit, deputy political editor of The Sunday Times and former civil servant Helen MacNamara who served as the deputy cabinet secretary. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newsca
Keir Starmer v The Civil Service
Today, Keir Starmer has sent a "real chill throughout the civil service." That’s according to a senior union official following his decision to sack the lead civil servant in the Foreign Office, Olly Robbins.James and Chris are joined by Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government, Catherine Haddon, to discuss the recent turbulence in the relationship between the government and the Civil Servic
Recommended
World Questions
The Physics Teaching Podcast
Preach The Word - David Legge
The Profitable Baker Podcast
The Non-Billable Podcast
CEO Stories: Conversations with Greater Birmingham business leaders
InsideAIR
Sami Hamdi
The Lancet Voice
English L'Abri
Ajahn Amaro Podcast by Amaravati
The Sheriff Show with Lewis Capaldi 2.0
