Afternoon Empire with Ian Collins
Talk 184 episodes Nov 11, 2026
Ian Collins hosts this daily talk show, offering a lively, no-nonsense perspective on the biggest stories in politics, current affairs, culture, and entertainment. He interviews expert guests, hears from outspoken commentators, and takes calls from listeners, providing sharp analysis and fresh angles on the news of the day.
Episodes
British Patriotism, David Walliams and Russell Brand: What Has Happened to Britain?
On Armistice Day, we ask what has happened to British patriotism. As the nation pauses to remember those who fought and died for this country, are we still proud of our history, identity and traditions? Or has Britain become a country increasingly uncomfortable with its own past? Broadcaster and journalist Linda Duberley joins us to discuss the changing meaning of patriotism, while Kemi Badenoch a
Russell Brand Sentenced: How Did He Get Away With It for So Long?
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins as Russell Brand is sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison for rape and sexual assault. After being found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault last week, Brand has now been handed a lengthy custodial sentence at Southwark Crown Court.Times Radio’s Ollie Cole joins us with an overview of the sentencing hearing and the judge’s
Is France Finally Taking the Channel Migrant Crisis Seriously?
Illegal Channel crossings are becoming a defining issue in France’s next election, with growing pressure on politicians to confront the role France plays in the migrant crisis. Alex Deane, Political Commentator, and Gavin Mortimer, author and Spectator writer, join us to discuss whether immigration could reshape the French political landscape, what France should be doing to stop the boats and whet
Russell Brand Found Guilty: Ian Collins Breaks the News Live
Ian Collins broke the news live on Talk as Russell Brand was found guilty of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court. Brand was acquitted of two further rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault. He is due to be sentenced on Monday.As the verdicts came in, Ian was joined by Alex Dibble, Deputy Head of News at Talk, and former Dail
Has Trump’s Political Dominance Finally Crumbled?
Donald Trump has suffered a major midterm election defeat, with Democrats taking control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate in a sweeping setback for the Republicans. Andrew Gilligan, Senior Fellow at Policy Exchange and former special adviser to Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak, joins us to examine what went wrong for Trump, whether the result marks a turning point in American polit
Has Labour Abandoned Its Immigration Crackdown?
Shabana Mahmood has watered down key parts of her immigration overhaul following a backlash from Labour MPs and Cabinet colleagues. The Home Secretary’s original plans were expected to save taxpayers £10 billion, but exemptions for foreign care workers mean the projected savings will now be lower. Ben Brindle of Oxford University’s Migration Observatory joins us to explain what has changed, who wi
Is Labour Losing Control of Immigration, Identity and Britain’s Borders?
Shabana Mahmood is preparing to unveil major changes to Britain’s immigration system, but reports suggest the original crackdown could be watered down following pressure from Labour MPs and unions. Guy Dampier, Senior Researcher on Nationhood at the Prosperity Institute, and immigration lawyer Harjap Singh Bhangal join us to examine whether Labour is weakening its promises to bring immigration dow
Is Britain Facing a Lost Decade for Living Standards?
Britain is being warned to prepare for a decade of economic pain. The Institute for Fiscal Studies says the 2020s are on course to be the worst decade for household income growth on record, while the Resolution Foundation forecasts typical non-pensioner households will be £1,050 worse off by 2029. Lindsay Judge, Research Director at the Resolution Foundation, joins us to break down the figures, th
John Healey’s Autumn Budget: Is It Enough to Fix Britain?
Chancellor John Healey has delivered his first Autumn Budget under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, promising to ease the cost of living, support British businesses and strengthen national security. But with rising energy costs, pressure on public finances and difficult choices over taxation and spending, does this Budget offer real solutions or simply temporary relief?Talk presenter Peter Cardwell jo
Keep Calm and Pack a Survival Kit
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins. Is Britain ready for a crisis? Ted Jeffery, co-founder of Defence On The Brink, discusses emergency survival kits and threats to undersea cables. Then Baroness Claire Fox examines white working-class children’s prospects and the Commonwealth chief's call for a royal apology over slavery. Plus, Charlie Rae, former royal editor of The Sun, discusses report
L'anarchie in the UK?
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins. The Green Party has urged people “inspired by the protests in France” to join a march against austerity in London next Tuesday. This comes as police warn that the UK’s response to French-style riots would be too slow. Journalist Linda Duberley joins Charlie to explore whether we at risk of descending into the same violence and looting that has wreaked havoc
The Ghost of Brexit Past
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins, joined by Leave.EU co-founder Arron Banks to discuss Nigel Farage’s bid to reunite Brexit backers against Andy Burnham’s push for closer European ties. Former Labour official Richard Power Sayeed and Conservative MP Douglas Lumsden then debate Labour’s approval of new North Sea drilling amid soaring gas prices. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more
Labour Civil War? Energy Secretary Attacks Mahmood’s Immigration Plans
Ian Collins is joined by Fred de Fossard, Director of Strategy at the Prosperity Institute, and barrister Dr S Chelvan to discuss the Energy Secretary's warning that Mahmood's immigration crackdown would threaten community cohesion.Then, the Daily Mail’s Defence and Diplomacy Editor Mark Nicol examines the row over the Troubles legacy bill, as well as warnings that relentless investigation
Can Farage Survive Reform’s Candidate Vetting Scandal?
Nigel Farage is facing fresh questions over Reform UK’s candidate vetting after reports emerged of candidates making racist and sexist jokes and calling for the execution of the King. Political commentators Ellie Hodges and Benedict Spence join us to examine the allegations, how Reform selects its candidates and what the controversy means for Farage’s efforts to present the party as a credible alt
Why Aren’t Brits Getting British Jobs?
Four out of five new jobs created over the past decade reportedly went to foreign nationals, according to a new report. Ben Habib, Chairman of Great British PAC, joins us to examine why British workers account for such a small share of new payroll jobs, whether employers have become too reliant on overseas recruitment and what needs to change to put British workers first.MI5 chief Sir Ken McCallum
Is Britain Heading Back Towards the EU?
Andy Burnham says Britain is ready for closer ties with the European Union, reigniting the debate over Brexit and the UK’s future relationship with Europe. Charlie Rowley, former Conservative Special Adviser, and Fred de Fossard, Director of Strategy at the Prosperity Institute, join us to discuss whether Labour is paving the way for closer EU integration and what it could mean for Britain.We also
Kemi Badenoch: Is This the Fight for Britain’s Future?
Alex Phillips joins us live from Israel’s Gaza envelope as the country marks the anniversary of the October 7 attacks, reporting from the area around the Gaza border and reflecting on the ongoing conflict and its impact two years on.Back at Conservative Party Conference, Charlie Rowley, Former Tory Special Adviser and Talk Presenter, joins us after Kemi Badenoch’s conference speech. We discuss her
Kemi Predicts an Early Election
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins, who returns on Monday. Kemi Badenoch has predicted Andy Burnham could call a general election as early as May of next year.Jonathan Haslam, former director of communications at No.10, joins to give his thoughts on who might win, and whether the prime minister has blown his chances of being elected with his stance on the EU. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri
Lags On the Loose
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins. As Labour’s early release scheme begins, campaigners warn that victims will be left living in fear if adequate protections are not put in place. Former prison governor Vanessa Frake and rape survivor Jade Belgrove join Charlie to criticise the scheme. In other news, Andy Burnham has said a second Brexit referendum is an option for the UK. David Campbell Bann
Burnham Says Re-Joining The EU Is 'On The Table'
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins. In his speech to Labour Party Conference yesterday, Andy Burnham announced a major review of the UK’s long term relationship with the EU. Today he said all options were on the table, including re-joining the bloc. Fraser Myers, deputy editor of Spiked Online, and Lance Forman, former Brexit MEP, join the show for analysis. In other news, watchdogs have warne
Burnham Betrays Brexit & Vows to Scrap Triple Lock
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins as the Labour Party Conference gets into full swing.Following Andy Burnham’s headline-grabbing, lectern-free speech, Benedict Spence, Sebastian Salek, Matt Vickers and Richard Tice share their reactions and analysis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
RAF Fairford Under Threat
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins. Police are investigating an incident outside RAF Fairford after five men were arrested on suspicion of terror offences on Sunday. Charlie is joined by Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, former British Army colonel, who says the unfolding events should be a very uncomfortable wake-up call. Meanwhile, the Labour Party Conference is well under way in Liverpool, and Ryan
Is Britain Heading for an Early Election?
Duncan Barkes sits in for Ian Collins. Downing Street advisers are reportedly pushing for an early general election, while Kemi Badenoch is putting the Conservatives on notice for a possible election within months. Steve N Allen, Comedian & Broadcaster, joins us to ask whether Britain could be heading back to the polls sooner than expected.Kevin Schofield, Political Editor at HuffPost UK, join
Britain, Europe or America: Where Does Our Future Lie?
As Andy Burnham opens the door to Britain potentially rejoining the EU, we ask whether the UK’s relationship with Europe is becoming more important than the Special Relationship with America.Matthew Bryza, former White House Official, and Mike Galsworthy, Chair of the European Movement UK, debate Britain’s future between the US and EU, the strength of the Special Relationship and whether Brexit is
Would You Tactically Vote to Stop the Left?
With the next election already shaping the political battle lines, could tactical voting be the key to stopping the left? David Wooding, Columnist at The Sun, joins us to discuss a new poll suggesting Restore Britain could damage Reform’s election hopes — and whether voters on the right will put party loyalty aside to defeat Labour.We also examine Britain’s growing welfare bill, with official figu
Is Andy Burnham Planning a Tax Raid?
Andy Burnham is reportedly considering an early election as he looks for a mandate for higher taxes, with claims of growing concern over the state of the public finances. We examine proposals for a potential £14 billion capital gains tax increase and what higher taxes could mean for businesses, investors and households.Andrew Allison, Head of Campaigns at Popular Conservatism, Dale Vince, Founder
Would you ever vote Tory again?
With the Conservatives struggling to rebuild after years of electoral turmoil, Oscar Reddrop, former No.10 Adviser, joins us to ask whether the party can claw its way back — and whether there is still a future for the Tories as the right of British politics fragments.We look at Andy Burnham’s continued popularity, whether other parties can seriously challenge Labour, and whether the Conservatives
Piddington: Is This the Turning Point on Migration?
Piddington: Is this the turning point on migration? Villagers in Piddington are mounting a growing revolt over plans to house migrants in their community, with campaigners warning that the fightback could spread across the country. Reform and the Conservatives have backed calls for a local referendum, while residents are demanding answers over the impact of migrant accommodation on their communiti
Reform Party Conference Special Part 1: Is Farage Ready to Govern?
Reform Conference Special: Can Farage really deliver? Peter Cardwell hosts. Reform UK is gathering for its conference amid fresh controversy over claims the party breached foreign donor rules, with aides standing down as questions mount over its finances and internal discipline.Alex Deane, political commentator, examines the latest Reform scandal and the growing questions around the party’s fundin
Should the State Own More of Britain?
Is more public ownership the answer to Britain’s economic problems? Andy Burnham is calling for greater public control of key parts of the economy, arguing that a bigger role for the state is necessary to deliver growth. But would more public ownership actually improve Britain’s economy, or simply leave taxpayers picking up the bill?David Buik, financial adviser and markets commentator at Aquis Ex
Fight on the Right?
Reform UK is calling for restrictions on voting rights for people who cannot speak English, while Kemi Badenoch has vowed to deport all illegal immigrants. Meanwhile, Green Party gains in Dover highlight how a divided right-wing vote could benefit the Greens. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What is the appropriate age to start using social media?
For years, experts have warned about the impact social media can have on young minds. Now, Big Tech is facing the consequences. Meta has agreed to an $18 billion settlement over lawsuits involving Facebook and Instagram, leading to new limits on screen time for millions of teens.Ian Collins is joined by tech journalist Guy Cocker to discuss the issue, followed by child safeguarding consultant and
Is Britain Covering Up the True Scale of Migrant Crime?
Is Britain covering up the true scale of migrant crime? Victims are demanding answers as claims emerge of a migrant crime wave being hidden from the public. We examine the latest allegations and the growing political pressure to publish more data on crimes committed by foreign nationals.Orla Minihane, from Restore Britain and a member of Pink Ladies, discusses the campaign for greater transparency
Talk Exclusive: Inside the Migrant Dinghy Heading for Britain
Talk International Editor Isabel Oakeshott reveals the extraordinary undercover operation arranged by Talk which saw a journalist trick his way onto a migrant dinghy preparing to cross the Channel from France to Britain. The Telegraph has today published its write-up of the exclusive.What did the investigation uncover about the smugglers, the migrants attempting the crossing and the dangerous jour
Is Britain Wasting £500,000 a Day on Illegal Migrants?
Is Britain wasting £500,000 a day on illegal migrants? The Government is facing fury over the reported cost of detaining migrants and moving them around the country, as Shabana Mahmood comes under pressure to push ahead with tougher migration reforms despite opposition from Labour MPs. Is the asylum system becoming an unsustainable burden on taxpayers?Matthew Syed, columnist for The Times and The
Is Britain Heading for a £3 Trillion Debt Crisis?
David Bull sits in for Ian Collins. Britain’s soaring welfare bill is pushing national debt towards the £3 trillion mark, while the political right remains divided over whether Reform UK should work with the Conservatives or Restore. We examine whether Britain’s spending and welfare system can continue on its current trajectory.Steve N Allen, comedian and broadcaster, looks at Reform UK’s ref
Is Britain Finally Getting Tough on Illegal Immigration?
Is Britain finally getting tough on illegal immigration? The Government is facing renewed pressure over asylum policy after a controversial migrant information booklet was reported to contain guidance explaining what rape is and telling asylum seekers not to commit sexual offences. We examine the wider row over immigration, deportation and whether the UK’s asylum system is failing victims.Peter Ba
Is Social Media Destroying Childhood?
David Bull sits in for Ian Collins: Children are increasingly being exposed to extremist content online, with warnings that young people are becoming “intoxicated with extremism” through social media. At the same time, Meta is facing a landmark trial over allegations surrounding social media addiction in children, while Instagram and Facebook could be forced to change the way they operate. Is soci
Reform Welfare: Cruel or Kind?
David Bull sits in for Ian Collins: Reform UK has unveiled plans for £50 billion a year in welfare cuts, including proposals to stop foreign nationals claiming Universal Credit. Robert Jenrick is also set to set out the party’s plans to overhaul the benefits system. Are Reform proposing necessary welfare reform, or are their cuts too harsh?Lord Daniel Hannan, Independent Peer and Director of the I
Burnham’s Immigration and Crime Crisis
Is Andy Burnham losing control of immigration and crime? The Prime Minister faces growing pressure on two of the biggest issues shaping British politics, with a row over asylum seeker accommodation intensifying as new figures suggest thousands more migrants could arrive under Labour’s small boats policy.Brendan O’Neill, Chief Political Editor at Spiked, examines Burnham’s demand that middle-class
Should MPs Have More Protection?
Should MPs have more protection? The murder of Ann Widdecombe and a police investigation into the Widdecombe suspect over an alleged arson attack at Nigel Farage’s home have renewed questions about the risks faced by Britain’s politicians. How much should we spend to keep MPs and high-profile political figures safe, and what price are we willing to put on protecting democracy?Security specialist W
Can Andy Burnham Win Back Britain?
David Bull sits in for Ian Collins.Can Andy Burnham win back Britain? The Prime Minister is taking his cost of living message around the country as new polling raises questions about the strength of Labour’s support and whether Burnham can turn his premiership around before the next General Election.David Wooding, columnist at The Sun, assesses Burnham’s cost of living tour, the latest bombshell p
Should Social Housing Be for British Families Only?
Mark Dolan sits in for Ian Collins today, asking: Should social housing be for British families only? The Conservatives are proposing to stop foreign nationals from accessing council housing, reigniting the debate over who should qualify for Britain’s limited supply of social homes. Is this a fair response to the housing crisis, or does it risk creating a new divide?James Heale, Deputy Political E
Has Immigration Put Reform Back on Top?
Has immigration put Reform back on top? New polling suggests Reform UK has overtaken Labour once again, with immigration continuing to dominate voters’ concerns. As the Government defends its “one in, one out” migrant returns deal, is border control now the defining issue in British politics, and can any party convince the public it has a credible solution?Former No.10 adviser Oscar Reddrop discus
Can the Navy End the Small Boats Crisis?
Should Britain deploy the Royal Navy to stop the boats? Reform UK has sparked a diplomatic row after proposing the use of British forces to return migrant boats and, if necessary, land troops on French beaches if France refuses to cooperate. Is this a serious solution to the small boats crisis or an unworkable political gesture?Andrew Tettenborn, writer and academic, discusses Reform’s proposals,
Should Reform and Restore Join Forces?
Mark Dolan sits in for Ian Collins where we ask if the political right unite? Following Nigel Farage’s latest speech, speculation is growing over whether Reform UK and Restore could work together after Restore’s leader proposed a pact to unite the “patriotic Right” under a series of policy conditions, including a burka ban and a referendum on the death penalty.Former government adviser James Price
Can the Tories Win Back the Right?
Can the Conservatives win back the political right? With Reform UK facing internal turmoil and Kemi Badenoch pushing to reshape her party, is this the moment for the Conservatives to reclaim right-wing voters, or has British politics changed for good?Former Conservative Cabinet minister Sir David Lidington discusses whether the Conservatives have a credible route back to power, what the party must
Can Burnham Get Tough on Immigration?
Is Andy Burnham being naive on immigration? Just one week into his premiership, the Prime Minister insists Labour’s plan to stop small boat crossings is working, despite more than 900 migrants crossing the Channel during his first week in office. With questions also being raised over French authorities’ response at sea and claims the Home Office relied on flawed AI evidence in asylum decisions, is
Has University Failed a Generation?
Has university failed a generation? Andy Burnham has announced a major shake-up of England’s education system, signalling the end of the Blair-era ambition of sending 50% of young people to university and placing greater emphasis on technical and vocational education from the age of 14.Political commentator Charlie Rowley discusses what the changes mean for young people, employers and Britain’s ec
Has the Welfare State Gone Too Far?
Is Britain rewarding welfare over work? As Andy Burnham prepares to crack down on sickness benefits for young people, a wider debate is growing over welfare, social care, policing and whether Britain is becoming too dependent on the state.Ben Gregg, Head of Welfare at the Centre for Social Justice, discusses Burnham’s plans to tighten eligibility for youth sickness benefits amid concerns that too
Is Andy Burnham Dividing Britain?
Is Andy Burnham creating a two-tier Britain? Just days into his premiership, the Prime Minister is facing criticism over a growing North-South divide, a string of expensive spending promises, and mounting questions about how his government will pay the bill.Journalist and author Michael Crick discusses claims that Burnham’s agenda risks deepening regional divisions, why his government is already u
Burnham’s New Cabinet: Built to Win?
Charlie Rowley sits in for Ian Collins.Andy Burnham’s cabinet: Built to win or to fail? On his first full day as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham has unveiled a dramatically reshaped Cabinet, appointing John Healey as Chancellor, Wes Streeting as Defence Secretary, bringing Angela Rayner back into government after her resignation over a tax scandal, and handing senior roles to key allies as he promise
Burnham’s Vision: Will Britain Buy It?
Can Andy Burnham unite Britain? The Prime Minister has unveiled his 10-year plan for the UK, promising to tackle the cost of living, rebuild public services and reshape the economy. But with critics warning of a new era of big government and polling suggesting many southern voters question his legitimacy, can Burnham win over the whole country?Alex Deane, political commentator, breaks down Burnham
Can Andy Burnham Deliver?
Has Andy Burnham finally set out his vision for Britain? After delivering his first major speech as Labour’s incoming leader, Burnham says he will offer a “new path for the UK” and attempt to reset British politics after the collapse of the Starmer era.Anna Mikhailova, Political Editor at Times Radio, reacts to Burnham’s speech and the mood inside Labour as the party prepares for a new chapter. Wh
Are Reform Politicians in Danger?
Are Reform politicians in danger? The investigation into the killing of Ann Widdecombe has raised fresh concerns about the safety of elected representatives after police revealed the suspect may have targeted other Reform politicians as they investigate a suspected left-wing extremist motive.Political commentator Chloe Dobbs discusses the implications of the latest developments, including claims t
When Did Politics Get So Toxic?
When did politics get so toxic? The investigation into the killing of Ann Widdecombe has taken another dramatic turn after counter-terrorism police confirmed they are treating it as politically motivated. The decision has intensified concerns about the safety of politicians and the increasingly hostile climate surrounding public life in Britain.Political commentator Charlie Rowley discusses whethe
After Ann Widdecombe: Are Public Figures Under Threat?
Have we reached the point where being a public figure in Britain is simply too dangerous? Following the killing of Ann Widdecombe, the investigation has taken another dramatic turn after the suspect was re-arrested and the case was taken over by counter-terrorism policing. Detectives say there is currently no evidence of a political motive, but the attack has reignited serious questions about the
Remembering Ann Widdecombe
Mark Dolan sits in for Ian today as Ann Widdecombe dies aged 78. Britain is paying tribute to the former Conservative minister, broadcaster and one of the country’s best-known political figures after her sudden death. Police have launched an investigation after her death was initially treated as suspicious, as tributes pour in from across the political spectrum.Brendan O’Neill, Chief Political Wri
Is Trust in British Politics Broken Forever?
Has your trust in politics completely broken down? With Nigel Farage’s resignation triggering a controversial Clacton by-election, new research suggests most Britons believe the country’s social contract has collapsed. Is confidence in politics at its lowest point in decades?Former government special adviser James Price examines whether Britain’s political system is fundamentally broken, why trust
Farage Resigns: Is This the End or a New Beginning?
Nigel Farage has resigned. What happens now? In a dramatic move, the Reform UK leader has resigned as MP for Clacton, triggering a by-election that he says will be a battle between “the people and the establishment” as he seeks a fresh mandate from voters amid ongoing scrutiny over his finances.Isabel Oakeshott, Talk International Editor, reacts to Farage’s bombshell announcement and what it means
Can Reform Survive the Farage Scandal?
Can Reform survive the Farage scandal? Nigel Farage is facing mounting scrutiny after fresh allegations over political funding, raising questions about transparency, standards and whether the controversy could damage Reform UK’s momentum.Dan Hodges, commentator at the Mail on Sunday, reacts after Farage issued a furious response to claims surrounding undeclared support from a close ally, while Ref
Are White Working-Class Children Britain’s Forgotten Generation?
Are white working-class kids being left behind? New claims that white working-class students are being excluded from some Oxbridge diversity schemes have reignited the debate over equality, opportunity and who is being left behind in modern Britain.Lord Tony Sewell, former Chair of the Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities, discusses reports that white working-class pupils are missing out on u
Britain’s Immigration Crisis: What’s the Answer?
How would you solve the immigration crisis? With the cost of the asylum system under growing scrutiny and fresh questions over border security, immigration is once again dominating the political agenda.Charlie Rowley reacts to reports that migrants using the ECHR to remain in Britain could cost taxpayers £4.9 billion, as ministers unveil plans to make asylum seekers repay the cost of hotel accommo
Burnham’s 10-Year Britain: Trust Him or Stop Him?
Would you give Andy Burnham 10 years? The Prime Minister says he needs a decade to transform Britain, but critics warn his plans could mean higher taxes, bigger government and little immediate relief for struggling families.Linda Duberley reacts after Burnham unveiled his 10-year vision for Britain, amid claims that middle-class taxpayers could be hit with fresh tax rises to fund Labour’s long-ter
Burnham’s Britain: Borders, Net Zero and the Trump Challenge
Is Andy Burnham already winning over Britain? New polling suggests Britons would rather see Andy Burnham in No.10 than Nigel Farage, as the new Prime Minister faces his first major tests on the economy, immigration and Net Zero.Mark Littlewood, Director of Popular Conservatism, reacts after Donald Trump branded Burnham “extremely liberal” during a White House appearance. Is Burnham heading for a c
Can Andy Burnham Turn Britain Around?
Can Andy Burnham turn our country around? Just days after Keir Starmer’s resignation, attention is turning from Labour’s leadership drama to a bigger question: is Burnham ready to govern?Giles Dilnot, Editor of ConservativeHome, reacts as Burnham and Starmer hold talks on an “orderly transition” amid reports that Burnham’s team is scrambling to prepare for power after being caught off guard by the
The Battle for Labour: Should Burnham Be Challenged?
Should Andy Burnham face a leadership challenge? Just hours after Keir Starmer’s resignation, Labour is already facing a fierce battle over who should take control of the party, with some MPs reportedly moving to stop what they fear could become a Burnham coronation.Matthew Syed, columnist for The Times and The Sunday Times, joins us live as Westminster reacts to Burnham’s dramatic arrival in Parl
Starmer Resigns: Can Andy Burnham Save Britain?
Will Andy Burnham save Britain? Following the dramatic resignation of Keir Starmer, Labour is entering a new era as attention turns to who will lead the party, and the country, next.Martin Beckford, Policy Editor at the Daily Mail, reacts to Starmer’s emotional departure from Downing Street after months of political turmoil, Cabinet infighting and mounting pressure from Labour MPs. What finally br
700+ Migrants in a Day: Can Anyone Stop the Boats?
Can any party stop the small boats crisis? With more than 700 migrants crossing the Channel in a single day, the highest daily total of the year so far, pressure is mounting on the Government as critics argue that every major party has failed to get a grip on illegal migration.Isabel Oakeshott, Talk International Editor, reacts to the latest Channel crossing figures and asks whether Labour, the Co
Toxic Britain? Politics, Public Anger and the Breakdown of Trust
How has politics become so toxic? Ten years after the murder of MP Jo Cox, concerns are growing that political debate in Britain is becoming increasingly angry, polarised and hostile, both online and offline.Charlie Rowley, political commentator, reacts to warnings that political discourse is more poisonous than ever, with growing concerns about intimidation, abuse and the impact of social media o
Social Media Ban: Protecting Children or State Overreach?
Should under-16s be banned from social media? With Keir Starmer unveiling plans for sweeping new restrictions on children’s access to social media, Britain is facing a major debate over online safety, parental responsibility, free speech and the role of Big Tech.Harrison Allman-Varty, Leader of Reform UK on Elmbridge Borough Council, reacts to the proposed ban and asks whether the Government is ri
Starmer Under Siege: Resignation, Belfast Unrest & Right-Wing Splits
Is Keir Starmer losing control of Britain? With a Cabinet resignation, growing unrest in Northern Ireland and fresh divisions on the Right, pressure is mounting on the Prime Minister from every direction.Former Conservative MP and military expert Bob Seely reacts after Defence Secretary John Healey resigned in a major blow to the Government, raising serious questions about Labour’s handling of def
Belfast Unrest: Why Don’t People Feel Heard?
How do Britons make their voices heard, and what happens when people feel nobody is listening? Following a second night of disorder in Belfast, questions are being asked about public anger, political representation and whether Britain’s institutions are responding to the concerns of ordinary people.Political commentator Chloe Dobbs reacts to the fallout from violent unrest after masked rioters set
Economic Decline & the Belfast Horror
Is Britain in complete economic decline? And what does the horrific Belfast attack say about the state of the country? As fresh warnings emerge that unemployment could soar towards two million, Britain is facing growing questions over economic competence, public safety and government accountability.Samara Gill reacts to explosive claims that billions of pounds in taxpayer-backed Covid loans and fo
JD Vance, Henry Nowak & US Influence: Should America Shape British Politics?
Should the United States stay out of British politics? After a public row between senior British and American politicians over the Henry Nowak case, questions are growing about whether US figures are increasingly shaping political debates in the UK.Ameer Kotecha and Freddy Gray react after J. D. Vance weighed in on the Henry Nowak case, prompting David Lammy to reveal he personally called the US V
Does British Politics Need More 'Normal People?'
Does British politics need more 'normal people?' As campaigning begins for the Makerfield by-election, Ian Collins examines the state of UK politics, the public mood, and whether Westminster is becoming increasingly disconnected from voters.He's joined by broadcaster and journalist Michael Crick to analyse the situation so far, following some of the candidates appearing on Question Time.Meanwhile,
Justice for Henry Nowak? Two-Tier Policing and Protests
What does justice for Henry Nowak look like? Ian Collins examines the Southampton protest near the home of the 18-year-old's killer, where eleven police officers were injured, and asks what the unrest reveals about public anger, policing and community safety.Former policing minister Damian Green and former government political violence adviser Lord Walney discuss Keir Starmer’s response to Nigel F
Could Reform UK Take Power? Plus Henry Nowak Bodycam Footage Sparks Questions
Do you believe Reform will win the next general election? The UK's leading pollster says it is increasingly likely.Ian Collins is joined by Sir John Curtice, Professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde and polling expert, to discuss Reform UK’s rise, the latest general election polling, and the shifting landscape of British politics.Meanwhile, chief political writer at Spiked, Brendan O
Mandelson Files Day: What’s About to Be Exposed and Should We See the Henry Nowak Footage?
What are we about to learn from the Mandelson files and should the Henry Nowak bodycam footage be released? With hundreds of messages, emails and internal communications reportedly due to emerge, Keir Starmer is facing fresh pressure over what ministers knew, what warnings were ignored and whether the full truth about Peter Mandelson’s vetting will finally come out.Political commentator Alex Deane
Policing on Trial? Political Correctness, Henry Nowak & Manchester Airport
Mark Dolan sits in for Ian CollinsHas political correctness destroyed British policing? Fresh controversies have reignited questions over whether officers are being distracted by institutional culture, fear of accusations and bureaucracy instead of focusing on public safety.Writer and broadcaster Emma Trimble reacts to outrage after Hampshire Police apologised over claims officers treated a dying
