Political Currency

Ed Balls and George Osborne have election fever and won’t be stopped from answering your EMQs. How did George get the election date so wrong? Is the public too despondent with the state of politics to bother voting at all? And could the Liberal Democrats stun us all to become a credible opposition? 

Plus, George reveals what he thinks the Tories’ attack line on Keir Starmer will be, and Ed tries to nail him down on just who the incompetent junior minister in his treasury was…

You could have been listening to this episode of EMQs early and ad-free!

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Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher and Ned Miles

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. 

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

A snap election! Not quite George Osborne’s prediction of 14th November, Ed Balls is struggling to understand the logic that led Rishi Sunak to surprise, well, literally everybody with 4th July as the date of the next general election. Are good inflation numbers really enough to see the Conservatives to a better result than the formerly predicted disaster? George reveals Number 10’s thinking. 

As the battle is drawn, Ed and George discuss the seats to watch and the issues on the table - and of course, the ones that aren’t. And, they draw back the curtain on how Westminster will be preparing in the wake of the prime minister’s bombshell. 

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Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher and Ned Miles

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

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

Why doesn’t Bristol have a mayor anymore? What do treasury officials actually do? And is there a reason we’re losing so many bright young tech experts to the West Coast of America?

Plus, author Will Hutton wants to know if Ed Balls and George Osborne will take responsibility for their involvement in the economic crises of the twenty-first century, and in a podcast crossover, Sascha O’Sullivan of POLITICO’s Westminster Insider wants to know if we should be trying to find silver linings in Truss’s attempt to be different. 

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. 

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

Keir Starmer, poster boy. The Labour leader’s new pledge card is here, with six key policies and a black and white photoshoot to woo the public. Is it all a bit retro? Well that depends who you ask: George Osborne would prefer a new approach, whereas Ed Balls reckons some solid Labour '97 nostalgia might just be what the party needs.

Meanwhile, Labour’s shadow foreign secretary David Lammy is working hard to get himself out there on the world stage - and back in the good books of a certain former (and possibly future) US President, of whom he’s rarely been complimentary before. If he’s after an invitation to Mar-a-Lago, the good news is that George has the inside scoop from the current Foreign Secretary on how an evening at Donald Trump’s dinner table plays out. 

And, with George on the ground at Stanford University, what are the challenges of the campus protests sweeping the world - and what does it mean for politics in a globally important election year? 

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. 

Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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

Ed Balls and George Osborne are pleased to have been asked for book recommendations. Is this the start of a book club to compete with the likes of Richard and Judy? If so, George is bagsying his role in the duo now - and no, it’s not Richard. 

MP Greg Clark asks about the future of local mayoralties, and Sunday Times interviewer Decca Aitkenhead wants to know whether George is doing anything about his, ahem, selective memory. Plus, what on earth did the Cameron government see in Liz Truss all those years ago, and what’s changed?

You could have been listening to this episode of EMQs early and ad-free! Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. 

Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher and Ned Miles

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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

Rishi Sunak lives to fight another day after some terrible local election results. But as he loses yet another MP to Labour, Ed Balls and George Osborne ask whether it might be time to play a new strategy and try acting the underdog.

Meanwhile, whilst Labour had a markedly better weekend, it didn’t quite indicate the 1997-style landslide they might be hoping for in the next general election. Is Keir Starmer on track for a small majority? And if so, how should he manage it?

And in foreign affairs, the UK is notably absent from President Xi Jinping’s European itinerary this week. How did Sino-UK relations end up here, and how would a prime minister - current or future - get back on track?

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producers: Rosie Stopher and Ned Miles

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

It’s polling day. Ed Balls and George Osborne give their expert analysis on the importance of local elections: what contests do you need to look out for? And what do they reveal about Rishi Sunak’s political fortunes?

Across the border, the Scottish National Party is in turmoil after First Minister Humza Yousaf resigned. Could this open the door to a Labour resurgence in Scotland?

Speaking of, the person hoping to lead that resurgence is Keir Starmer. But how well do we really know the man hoping to be our next Prime Minister? George has called up Keir’s old friend Andrew Cooper to find out more about the Labour leader’s youth.

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. 

Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Production support: Miriam Hall

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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

It’s the most auspicious day of the year: Ed Balls Day. To celebrate, George has got his Ed Balls mask out (not a euphemism), and is ready to go Inside the Room. Just kidding. But he has in fact organised some questions from Ed’s nearest and not-so dearest. 

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves asks about Ed’s favourite Gregg’s order. Bandmate and Political Journalist Robert Peston wants to know why regulation of public services has gone so badly wrong, and Ed’s successor in his Morley and Outwood seat, Andrea Jenkyns, wonders if he regrets Labour’s gold sale. 

Plus, the icon that is Delia Smith asks about their shared passion: Norwich City Football Club. Not that that will stop Ed and George discussing their favourite Delia recipes. 

Head to our social media platforms to see how Ed celebrated Ed Balls day this year @polcurrency 

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Production support: Ellen Morgan

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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

After two years, Rishi Sunak can finally celebrate a Rwanda victory as his bill passes in parliament - but Ed Balls and George Osborne can’t help noticing it’s been somewhat overshadowed by an announcement on defence spending. Is the government playing with fudged figures? And is it even worthwhile as far as voters are concerned?

St George’s Day saw an unexpected new poster boy this week - and no, it’s not George, much to his chagrin. Keir Starmer is embracing his patriotic side. Ed and George weigh in on whether now is the right time to be flying the English flag, and if a dose of nationalism (and a nationalised railway) is the way to win an election.

And across the pond, presidential polling has been shaken up by the emergence of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a viable third candidate ready to split the vote. But whose vote will it split exactly? 

Producers: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Ellen Morgan

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Is the role of a PPS more than just a ‘bag carrier’ and when has it gone wrong? If Ed and George could have a cardboard cut out of any politician who would it be? And BBC Radio 4’s Amol Rajan asks Ed about Joe Biden’s stammer. Should the American President talk more openly about his speech impediment? 

Plus, is the rise of the smartphone to blame for us all being less productive? And should 16 and 17 year olds have been allowed to vote in the Brexit referendum? 

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. 

Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher and Miriam Hall 

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network. 

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

It should have finally been a bumper week for Rishi Sunak - with inflation down, a win for his smoking ban and with success on his Rwanda legislation within sight.

But instead, would-be Tory leaders have been hogging the limelight. Liz Truss is back with a vengeance. Could her ‘Trump-style’ return to form see her reinstated as head of the party?

Or is it Kemi Badenoch’s time to shine? Why has her stance on the smoking ban been rubbing her colleagues up the wrong way? 

And as we head towards the local elections, party leaflets are coming in thick and fast. That is, if you can tell which party it’s come from - because George has noticed some parties are a bit more keen to dwell on their Westminster representatives than others…

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. 

Try for free: patreon.com/politicalcurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Remember to send us your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith and Oliver Geraghty 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Ed Balls and George Osborne were Inside the Room with Michael Gove last week to deep dive into the Brexit plots - and now they’re facing your questions on the moment that changed British politics forever. 

What happened to all the voters the EU referendum coaxed out of the woodwork? Are women ignored in the retelling of those tumultuous days of 2016? And what can historical parallels tell us about the inevitability of rejoining?

Plus, GB News’ Chris Hope asks why George and David Cameron didn’t give themselves more time for their EU negotiations, Tim Shipman asks what would have happened if Boris Johnson became PM straight away and it’s time to ‘uncork the Gauke’ with a question on whether Michael Gove was right to advise future Prime Ministers to ‘never ever have a referendum on anything’?

You could have listened to this episode early and ad-free! Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. Try for free:patreon.com/politicalcurrencyor on Apple Podcasts:apple.co/politicalcurrency

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Oliver Geraghty 

Production Support: Miriam Hall

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Another week, another scandal surrounding the Conservatives. But this time of the honey trapping variety. Ed and George discuss the dating app scam that has ensnared at least one MP. 

Meanwhile, Labour is having a difficult time stamping out persistent claims the party’s Deputy Leader Angela Rayner dodged tax on a house sale. George says if she stumbles, all the Conservatives want to see her fall. He predicts there will be more to come. 

And David Cameron is back on the world stage, meeting with US presidential candidate Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Florida this week. George thinks it shows Cameron can secure the meetings no “normal” foreign secretary could land. Ed wonders, though, what Joe Biden would think of the former PM giving airtime and legitimacy to Trump … 

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. 

Try for free: patreon.com/PoliticalCurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production Support: Miriam Hall

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

The result is in, and in the words of David Dimbleby, ‘we’re out’. But whilst the Brexit referendum draws a line under the campaign period, it sets the stage for chaos in the lives of our insiders. In this final episode of 'Inside the Room: The Brexit Plots', Ed Balls and George Osborne grill Michael Gove on the Conservative leadership contest that followed David Cameron’s resignation, and what (or who) persuaded him to commit one of the great political betrayals of recent years.

Become a member of POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅 to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets. Try for free: patreon.com/PoliticalCurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production Support: Miriam Hall

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Archive: BBC News, EuroNews and Sky News

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

As the Leave and Remain campaigns get underway, it seems that the Remain camp has a clear lead. That is, until it doesn’t. 

In this second instalment of Inside the Room: The Brexit Plot, Michael Gove, Ed Balls and George Osborne take us behind the scenes of the ever-more-panicked campaign HQs as polling day draws in.

Part 3 of 'Inside The Room: The Brexit Plots' is exclusively available to listen to now for subscribers to POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅

Become a member of Political Currency Gold to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets.

Try for free: patreon.com/PoliticalCurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production Support: Miriam Hall

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Archive: BBC News, EuroNews and Sky News

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Brexit was the issue that splintered British politics: Friendships were broken, political parties split, and a nation polarised by the EU referendum. We all know what the outcome was, but in this special miniseries, Ed Balls and George Osborne are joined by Michael Gove - the ultimate Leave campaign insider - to discover what really went on behind the scenes of the biggest political shakeup of the 21st century.

In this first part of three, Ed, George and Michael take us back to the beginning of the Brexit campaigns and ‘inside the room’ as a formerly watertight cabinet began to split in favour of Leave or Remain.

Parts 2 and 3 of 'Inside The Room: The Brexit Plots' are available to listen to NOW for subscribers to Political Currency Gold.

POLITICAL CURRENCY GOLD 🏅

Become a member of Political Currency Gold to support the podcast, enjoy ad-free listening to all our episodes, receive early access to EMQs and Inside The Room, and to live show tickets.

Try for free: patreon.com/PoliticalCurrency or on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/politicalcurrency

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production Support: Miriam Hall

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Archive: BBC News, EuroNews and Sky News

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

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

Parliament may be heading into recess, but there’s little time for holidaying as the political parties are heading straight into local election campaigning after Easter. Ed Balls and George Osborne take stock of how those campaigns are shaping up, who and what to watch out for, and how the results might change the Westminster mood.

Is the BBC in danger again? And this time it’s from inside. After Tim Davie’s remarks this week, Ed and George take a deep dive on their own history with Auntie. 

And as we approach the end of the financial year, what about the newest kid on the block, Jeremy Hunt’s great British ISA? George and Ed look back on the “Buy British” campaigns of old and why they simply don’t work.  

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

The latest polling predicts Conservative armageddon in the next election. But do these polls matter? George reveals why the Tories are still banking on winning over those ‘don’t know’ voters. 

They’ll have a mountain to climb, with growing fears of coordinated tactical voting. Will it work as a strategy, and have Ed and George ever dared to vote for another party? 

And when Taylor Swift comes roaring into town, does she bring a massive economic boost with her? Our not-so-secret Swifties aren’t convinced… 

Plus, they tackle the consequences of spending commitments for subsequent governments, and ask if tradition has any real importance in politics. 

Got a question for Ed and George? Send a voice note to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Rishi Sunak is on a mission to prove his political fortunes are turning round… despite a long list of headaches. How can he get out of the political spiral he’s in? George and Ed pick over some lessons from Prime Ministers past… 

He’d do well to heed their words. On the Labour side, Rachel Reeves had made another big play for the role of chancellor, giving the Mais lecture. Is ‘securonomics’ the future of Britain? And does it mean she’s disowning some of Ed’s New Labour decisions?

And forget the Eton rifles, could Britain’s young people actually be going to war?

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rosie Stopher

Technical Producer: Will Gibson Smith

Production support: Miriam Hall

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Is legalising cannabis the answer to the hole in Labour’s financial plans? Are fiscal rules there to be broken? And, in light of the infamous royal photography fail, can Ed and George think of other times a photograph has landed a public figure in hot water? Of course they can - sorry Prime Minister!

Got a question for Ed and George? Send a voice note to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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

Michael Gove is rolling out his new definition of extremism this week, to the chagrin of people across the political spectrum. Ed and George weigh in on whether this will have any impact in keeping the UK safe, or whether it will threaten to divide the country further.

Unfortunately for Gove, a major Tory donor undermined the whole message with his own extreme comments about Diane Abbott. Should they return his £10m donation? And why didn’t they consult their most senior Black female member before responding to this new crisis? 

And the ‘crypto-winter’ is over: Bitcoin is back. Is the boom here to stay, and what does it mean for governments around the world?  

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

How does Donald Trump’s popularity endure, in spite of all his misdemeanours, and might Nigel Farage be taking notes? What is universal basic income and could it ever work in the UK? And George addresses recent claims that his little birdies in Downing Street have been found out… 

Ed and George are back answering more of your questions on EMQs. Have you got a burning issue you’d like them to address? Send a voice note to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

With the budget behind us, Ed pushes George on whether he’s still backing a November election. Tory sources are saying there’s a push from the centre of the party to send the country to the polls in May, but George has pretty strong views on what kind of idea that would be …. 

Meanwhile, Lord David Cameron is making lists and taking risks. The Foreign Secretary just celebrated 100 days in office, and George says he is being true to form by releasing a video listing off his lengthy travel agenda. But while anyone can hop on a plane – especially if you don’t have a constituency to tend to – Ed and George agree his willingness to push Israel on its approach to Gaza is shifting the international political mood, and restoring faith in the foreign office. 

And Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty’s interview with Grazia about their home life, meant to be lighthearted and relatable, has been met with widespread cringing. Is Rishi listening to any of George’s advice at all?

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Is this the budget that turns the Tories’ fortunes? 

Ed and George have been poised for this day for weeks: budget day! They give their immediate reaction to Jeremy Hunt’s (final?) spending plans, consider whether it meets the tests they set out on last week's episode, and they answer your questions.

This episode was originally broadcast LIVE on YouTube. Make sure you’re following us on social media @polcurrency so you don’t miss the next one. 

Producer: Rosie Stopher

Tech production: Will Gibson Smith

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

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

It's Budget week. Do Ed and George wish they were back in Parliament? And what's the secret to making it through the speech?

Plus they answer lots more of your questions, from whether Rachel Reeves is right to be thinking about reinstating the pensions lifetime allowance, to the mystery of what happened to the infamous EdStone...

Be sure to follow us on our socials @polcurrency and join us at 3pm on Wednesday 6th March for Ed and George’s live budget reaction.  

Producer: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

George reveals it was Sajid Javid who told Rishi Sunak to strip Lee Anderson of the whip, after comments that have been slammed as Islamophobic and hate speech. But on the broadcast rounds, the Conservative party line is to stop short, saying the “words were wrong” – over and over and over again. How would George and Ed tackle the furore, and why do they think Rishi Sunak should take a hard line and not “leave junior ministers out to dry”?

All the while, next week’s budget is causing friction between No. 10 and No. 11 – will Downing Street get the tax cuts they’re hoping for? And how will Jeremy Hunt be preparing for what could be his last budget as chancellor? 

And, is the real issue that the country simply isn’t growing? Prof. Ed Balls is back to explain to George why the government needs to take a regional approach if it wants the economy to boom. 

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts. 

Producers: Rosie Stopher 

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

With thanks to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Is Boris Johnson's forthcoming book going to cause Rishi Sunak another headache? Is it acceptable for political leaders to take private planes? And does positive discrimination ever work in politics? Ed Balls and George Osborne answer these questions and more in our latest instalment of EMQs.

Send your questions for future episodes to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rosie Stopher and Nathan Copelin

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Chaos reigns supreme in Parliament this week after a tabled Labour amendment led to calls for Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle to resign. Is it really as big a deal as has been made out? Or is it a huge mess for the Speaker to overcome?

Why isn’t the economy front and centre in this election year? It is on Political Currency! This week Ed Balls and George Osborne focus on housing policy. Will election battles be won on the greenbelt? 

And on Cameron-watch George’s mate David has been at the G20 summit, via the Falklands - the first UK politician to visit the islands since 2016. Does the foreign secretary have political motivation, or - as George suspects - is it just a bit of good old-fashioned political tourism to a place that holds curiosity for centrist dads everywhere? 

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency and leave us a review wherever you get your podcasts. 

Producers: Rosie Stopher and Nathan Copelin

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

Ed Balls and George Osborne answer more of your Ex-Minister’s Questions. Speaking of ex-ministers, Nick Boles, wants to know if there’s still an opportunity for anyone except Trump and Biden in the race for POTUS...

And what about Labour’s proposed VAT on private school fees - will it cause a state school influx? Is the left a bit ‘male’ as George alleges? Ed isn’t convinced. Plus, they both revisit their experience of very publicly losing their jobs.

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rosie Stopher and Nathan Copelin

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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

The United Kingdom has fallen into recession… technically. It couldn’t be worse timing for the Sunak government, which will now have this gloomy economic news - already dubbed ‘Rishession’ - hanging over its head for the next three months. What would Ed and George do next?

Meanwhile, Labour has been battling a crisis of its own, as it’s embroiled in another row over anti-semitism in the party. Has Keir Starmer done enough to address concerns over Rochdale candidate Azhar Ali? Ed and George agree it’s an embarrassing mess for Starmer and the worst week of his leadership so far.

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Producers: Rosie Stopher and Nathan Copelin

Production support: Miriam Hall 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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Ed Balls and George Osborne are back with more of your questions. Is the minimum wage making life harder for businesses? Which party will our next female Prime Minister hail from? Does Keir Starmer have enough charisma to maintain his leadership? Ed and George also reveal their best ever celebrity meetings - although George’s turns out to be a little too hip for Ed. And if you’ve ever wondered if Ed considered dropping the ‘Balls’ - well, it emerges it could have been worse. 

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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It’s been a week of missteps for Rishi Sunak - an uncomfortable bet struck with Piers Morgan over Rwanda and a jibe gone wrong at PMQs - plus Liz Truss and her PopCon launch can’t have helped. Is this a precursor to the next leadership contest - or just misguided lessons in popularity with one of the least popular PMs of all time?

In Labour land, the party’s £28 billion on green spending U-turn is finally coming to fruition, weeks after Ed predicted it would. Is it screeching to a stop enough for people to notice - and what will come in its place? Ed and George debate how effective the rollback is.

And as Buckingham Palace announces King Charles’ cancer diagnosis, Ed and George reflect on how a modern monarchy communicates with the public.

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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On this week's Ex-minister’s Questions, a listeners asks if Matt Hancock has simply been misunderstood? No guesses for which way Ed and George fall on that one. They’re also tackling social care policy, Sunday opening hours, and the real meaning of 'Chatham House rules'. Speaking of which, we've had correspondence from an anonymous source with a revelation about Rishi Sunak and a disappearing video he filmed for social media's most successful foodie account; TOPJAW.

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Wednesday marked the four-year anniversary of Brexit. Passed you by? Don’t worry, George admits he deleted the celebratory email from Tory HQ in protest. One old legacy of EU regulation is the bankers’ bonus cap, which Rachel Reeves revealed Labour would not reinstate if it won the election. Ed thinks she might be boxing herself in. He and George debate whether Britain has capitalised on its freedom from ‘red tape’ or if it’s all been a bit of a flop.

Rishi Sunak has announced a ban on disposable vapes. Sensible public health decision or the nanny state in action? Ed and George discuss whether the vaping ban ties in with Sunak’s clean living, fasting, tech bro image and whether it marks a break with the ultra-libertarian faction of the party. Should we just let Sunak be Sunak?

And zut alors! Ed crossed the Channel this week and made two important discoveries: a fantastic brasserie, and the oncoming depression in French political circles. As farmers blockade the streets of Paris, Ed and George ask what challenges President Macron faces and whether his successor could be a member of the far-right. 

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Ed and George tackle more Ex-Ministers’ Questions. What are the best nicknames they’ve heard in politics? Is it time to radically rethink the NHS? How can the Israel-Palestine conflict be talked about in a way that’s respectful to both sides? And George reveals one of the strangest rules in the House of Commons... may contain references to snorting - you have been warned!

To send in your questions for next week's episode, email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk - we love to receive your voice notes! 

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency 

Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher 

Production Manager: Flick Heath 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford 

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and part of the Acast Creator Network Hosted on Acast.

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Has Rishi Sunak survived his first attempted coup? It might look like Simon Clarke’s amounted to nothing but Ed and George think it might be too soon to tell whether he’s failed yet. They have plenty of insights into plots past, and the many ways they can fizzle, burn, or downright engulf a prime minister.

Elsewhere in politics, the UK tax burden has been drifting up to a rate not seen since the 1960s. Can any chancellor - current or future - do anything about it?

And in Europe, a beleaguered German coalition faces economic problems of their own, plus the looming  rise of the far-right. Is the most stable country in Europe headed towards ‘Dexit’?

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Ed and George are back to answer more of your Ex-Ministers' Questions. Who would lead a crisis during coalition negotiations? How do you prepare for PMQs? George and Ed discuss how they changed how the monarchy is financed. George reveals his double-life as leader of the Labour party. And Ed is grilled about kicking Susanna Reid in the head on live TV…

To send in your questions for next week's episode, email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk - we love to get your voice notes! 

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency 

Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher 

Production Manager: Flick Heath 

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford 

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and part of the Acast Creator Network Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Rishi Sunak survived Tory mutiny over the Rwanda policy, but he’s not out of the woods just yet. Ed and George explain why his road to election 2024 still faces huge problems.

Meanwhile, George has been in Davos this week. He reveals his celebrity spots - including Sting - as well as the global mood on the economy. But is this more than just a glitzy who’s who? Ed thinks it's a prime opportunity for opposition parties to show they mean business.  

And, in America, Donald Trump has claimed victory in the Iowa caucus. It could mean a return to the White House in 2025. Can foreign leaders come back from their scathing attacks and form a new relationship, and should they?

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Welcome to our first edition of EMQs - Ex-Ministers' Questions... see what we did there?. Every Monday, our ex-ministers will take your questions. Ed Balls and George Osborne will also hear from some influential and famous voices.

In our first episode: did the Lib Dems agree to ditch their pledge on tuition fees during the coalition talks? What is the Barnett formula and is it fair? And why are Special Advisers such as Dominic Cummings so influential?

To send in your questions for next week's episode, email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk - we love to get your voice notes!

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and part of the Acast Creator Network

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General election fever begins as George shares his insider tip on when the country can expect to go to the polls. But the new year has kicked off with new problems for political leaders. What do they need to get in order first? 

How can they tackle a much older issue that’s been dominating politics this week? The ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office has captured the public’s imagination and led to demands for justice. Ed and George reflect on how they missed the story the first time round, and whether it will change the role of local MPs.

And as war rages on in Ukraine and between Israel and Gaza, Ed and George examine the Taiwanese election, which could have the potential to trigger more global conflict if the result doesn’t please China. What should you look out for as the island goes to the polls this weekend?

Missing our Questions section? Good news! EMQs - that’s Ex-Ministers’ Questions - will now drop every Monday morning with more answers than we have time for in the Thursday episode. Make sure you’re subscribed to this feed to listen, and send your questions to questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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After two days of negotiations, the Conservatives had begun to worry a deal was slipping through their fingers. So what shifted to put David Cameron in Number 10? Danny Alexander is back with Ed and George to relive the five tense days in 2010 that led to a coalition government between the Tories and the Lib Dems.

In our second instalment, Ed and George grill Nick Clegg’s former Chief of Staff and lead negotiator about the moment he told Gordon Brown he had to go, and why the Lib Dems decided to join forces with the Tories. The former insiders also discuss what Keir Starmer, Rishi Sunak and Ed Davey can learn from these tense negotiations.

Inside The Room is a new series from Political Currency, where Ed and George dive deep into the big moments of political history. They will draw back the curtain on the drama and emotions that have fuelled the decisions made at the highest level, and explore the lasting effects those choices have had today.

Producers: Rachel Balmer

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Archive: BBC News and Sky News 

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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To the shock of the whole country, the 2010 general election delivered a hung parliament. The result kick-started five days of arguments and negotiations as the real race to Number 10 began between Gordon Brown and David Cameron, with Nick Clegg as kingmaker.

In this special episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne are joined by Danny Alexander, who was Nick Clegg's Chief of Staff and the Lib Dem lead negotiator during the coalition talks. George and Ed were also leading negotiations on behalf of David Cameron and Gordon Brown. The three take us 'inside the room' of the talks, giving insider first-hand accounts of the high-octane, stressful, and emotional negotiations.

Part 2 of 'Inside The Room: The Coalition Talks' drops on January 4th.

Inside The Room is a new series from Political Currency, where Ed and George dive deep into the big moments of political history. They will draw back the curtain on the drama and emotions that have fuelled the decisions made at the highest level, and explore the lasting effects those choices have had today.

Producer: Rachel Balmer

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Archive: BBC News and Sky News

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Ed and George answer questions from some very special guests...

Jeremy Hunt asks about the power budgets can have on elections, Stephen Fry grills George on the Elgin Marbles, and Susannah Reid wants to know what Ed and George think is the most significant TV interview they’ve seen. 

As we head into an election year, they reminisce on their first time as candidates, how they met their big political partners, and Rachel Reeves asks them about their best Christmases in the Treasury.

Producer: Rachel Balmer

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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George comes bearing gifts… the news of a winter election next year. As parliament winds down for Christmas, Ed and George reveal there’s no rest for politicians. The mood in the Tory party is gloomy, but could this be a critical moment for the opposition to strike?

Cameron, Starmer and Sunak have all been calling for a ‘sustainable ceasefire’ in Gaza. But is there such a thing? George throws down the challenge to our new ‘Rolls-Royce’ foreign sec.

The junior doctors are on strike again. Ed and George think they’re asking for too much. Can any government get this under control before polling day?

Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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It’s not just Rishi Sunak’s approval rating which has taken a battering. Keir Starmer has his own popularity problem. Why?

The so-called ‘five families’ of the Tory party threaten to “go to the mattresses” over the Rwanda bill, but end up bottling it. Is Mark Francois really the next Don Corleone? 

Ukraine’s President Zelensky has embarked on a world tour, pleading for more money for the Ukraine war. Is it time to rethink their strategy? 

And why London’s time as the great financial centre of the world might be over.

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Another week… another meltdown for the Conservatives. Ed and George ask whether the Tory civil wars have been reignited by the rift over Rwanda and Robert Jenrick’s shock resignation. Is Sunak’s position weaker than ever?

Meanwhile former prime ministers haunt party leaders wherever they go. Boris Johnson is giving evidence at the Covid inquiry, painting a picture of chaos during his tenure. George shares his own theories about the dire state of Johnson’s personal finances.

And Keir Starmer faces his critics after evoking Margaret Thatcher’s legacy this week. Ed and George share their stories about the Iron Lady.

Producer: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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The Autumn Statement hasn’t delivered the stability and calm that Sunak and Hunt likely hoped for. A rift in the party over immigration, a chaotic Covid inquiry and to top it off, a diplomatic incident with the Greek PM over the Parthenon Sculptures. In a week where Sunak hoped his Global Investment Summit would grab the headlines, why are the Tories failing to land their message?

Meanwhile, it's reported Sunak rebuffed Cabinet Secretary Simon Case’s proposals to allow talks between the opposition and the Civil Service to begin. Ed and George shed some light on the process, and why Sunak shouldn’t block Labour preparing for government.

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Researcher: Archie Herrod Robinson

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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The Autumn Statement continues to ripple through Westminster, and a new energy price cap puts the cost of living back into the spotlight. As the Chancellor continues his media rounds and Labour weighs in with their response, Ed and George share their experiences of the political traps set by big budget shakeups. 

Meanwhile, immigration is the big topic around the world today, as new migration figures are released in the UK, and elections are won in the Netherlands and Argentina over the issue. So just how can a government show they’re taking immigration concerns seriously while still filling jobs?

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rachel Balmer and Rosie Stopher

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

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George and Ed react to Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement. Is he really the tax cutting Chancellor he's claiming to be, and are we on course for an early election? And we’ll be back again tomorrow with more detail on the Chancellor’s plans as the picture becomes clearer.

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Exec producer: Dino Sofos

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Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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It’s been a wild week in Westminster and it’s starting to look like the Tories are losing their grip. Ed and George chew over the Supreme Court’s judgment on Rwanda and what it means for Sunak. Could his new Foreign Secretary slam the brakes on some Tories’ hopes to leave the ECHR?

Meanwhile, Keir Starmer faced a huge rebellion of his MPs over the SNP’s ceasefire amendment. Ed explains why this isn’t as big a threat to the Labour leader as it first appears... 

And though this psycho-drama has quickly buried any good news on inflation, over at No.11 Jeremy Hunt has his head down in Autumn Statement preparations. George reflects on how something as simple as a pasty can cause everything to fall apart. 

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Producers: Rachel Balmer & Paige Reynolds

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Rishi Sunak has finally sacked Suella Braverman, and the reshuffle has opened the door for the most unlikely return to politics: David Cameron. 

In our first HOT TAKE bonus episode, Ed Balls and George Osborne - his closest political friend - brings us the inside scoop on our new Foreign Secretary.

Email questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Exec producers: Ellie Clifford and Dino Sofos

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Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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Suella Braverman has attacked the Met Police Chief’s decision to allow the pro-Palestine march this Saturday, putting Rishi Sunak in a tricky position. Ed asks George whether firing her is the only option.

Civil servants and ministers are currently scrambling around the Treasury to get everything ready for the upcoming Autumn Statement. All eyes will be on Jeremy Hunt: will he survive his big moment?

And Nadine Dorries’ book is out today, shedding light on the shadowy group she calls ‘the Movement’ operating at the heart of government. Is populism over in British politics?

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rachel Balmer

Researcher: Archie Herrod Robinson

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Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network

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It was Dominic Cummings' turn at the Covid inquiry this week and - as George predicted - we heard about the misogynistic language being used in Boris Johnson's Number 10. What does it reveal about the toxic culture operating in Westminster at that time? And why this isn't ancient history for the Tories.

Trouble is still brewing for Keir Starmer over his party's response to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Is his political authority in danger?

And why the American economy is having a much bigger impact on your house price than you think.

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Producers: Paige Reynolds

Researcher: Archie Herrod Robinson 

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Keir Starmer has shifted his position on Gaza. But he’s still not calling for a ceasefire. Has this incident been a wake up call for the Labour party? George Osborne reveals that we’ll be hearing about some “shocking and disgusting” messages sent by Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings at the Covid inquiry next week. And we’re joined by Matt Clifford, Rishi Sunak’s representative for the AI Safety Summit. He’s warning of the need to avoid a “Three Mile Island” moment for AI.

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Producers: Paige Reynolds

Researcher: Archie Herrod Robinson 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

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Keir Starmer’s potentially got his party into hot water this week over his position on Israel’s right to defend herself - what should he do next? And what risk does it pose to Labour support in any upcoming elections?

Speaking of elections: As we await results of two by-elections, George and Ed give their predictions and share memories of outgoing Mid Bedfordshire MP Nadine Dorries. 

George has been giving evidence in the Covid-19 inquiry, which is back in session. It’s rumbling on quietly at the moment, but with some big names coming up, how will it disrupt the Conservative’s autumn plans?

And the Institute for Fiscal Studies has released its annual Green Budget, but are we really headed for recession? And what else should Jeremy Hunt and Rachel Reeves be worried about?

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rosie Stopher and Paige Reynolds 

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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The violence between Israel and Gaza rages on. What are Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer thinking behind the scenes in Westminster? And what does the conflict mean for the global economy?

Elsewhere, it was Labour’s turn to set our their stall at conference. Keir Starmer gave a glittering performance with housing at its core, and the ex-Bank Of England chief gave Rachel Reeves a glowing endorsement. But Ed and George both think there’s more to do to convince voters.

And could higher interest rates mean that young people can actually get on the housing ladder?

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Follow us on social media: @polcurrency

Producers: Rosie Stopher

Production Manager: Flick Heath

Executive Producers: Dino Sofos and Ellie Clifford

Political Currency is a Persephonica Production and is part of the Acast Creator Network.

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It's conference season and Ed and George aren't short of speeches to dissect. The Prime Minister has launched his new and improved radical Rishi persona this week - is it enough to save the Conservatives at the next election? And can it compete with the real talk of the conference - a certain Mr Farage spotted here there and everywhere?

Meanwhile, Labour are preparing to take to the stage for their own conference in Liverpool, with Rachel Reeves' hotly anticipated speech on Monday. Can the shadow chancellor walk the tightrope of offering optimism without over-promising? These two former shadows offer a few choice thoughts.

And elsewhere, the decision in the US to pause military support for Ukraine has shaken the EU - here's why it might have a long-lasting impact of Britain's approach to foreign policy too.

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Suella Braverman has caused a row this week after her controversial comments on Britain’s immigration policy. Ed and George argue over whether she took the right approach. 

The Conservative party prepares to head off to its conference. Why is this a critical moment for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak?

Is Manchester mayor Andy Burnham’s support for HS3 a gift to Sunak, and a disaster for HS2?

And why did George and David Cameron have to scoop a turd out of Rupert Murdoch’s pool?

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Is Boris Johnson the real target of Rishi Sunak’s rollback of green policies? George reveals there is a split in the Conservative party over rumours that the government will abandon its HS2 expansion. The Bank of England leaves interest rates unchanged - should we be surprised? And why we should be paying attention to the escalating row over the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

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As Jeremy Hunt scrambles for pre-election tax cuts, the northern leg of HS2 is under threat and pensioners are facing a smaller raise in payments than they were expecting. Is the Chancellor making mistakes that will cost his party an important support base? And pressure is mounting on Rishi Sunak over allegations of a Chinese spy in parliament, but that's far from his only problem - with oil prices soaring, how can the Prime Minister make sure he keeps his inflation pledge?

In this first episode of Political Currency, old rivals Ed Balls and George Osborne join forces to examine what's going on behind the scenes of the big stories, what their own experience can tell us, and what they think the key players should do next.

Email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

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Welcome to Political Currency! Before we bring you our first episode this Thursday, 14th September, we thought we'd tell you what our podcast is all about.

Ed Balls and George Osborne will take you behind closed doors into the rooms where decisions are made. Having battled it out across the despatch box, the former Chancellor and shadow chancellor are now meeting in the studio to discuss the decisions that affect the nation’s pockets. Our frenemies have the knowledge and experience to explain how good politics follows the economics - and expose how the powerful become powerless when faced with market forces and political currents they can’t control.

If you have questions for Ed and George, email: questions@politicalcurrency.co.uk

Find us on social media @polcurrency

Political Currency is a Persephonica production.

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