Emily Maitlis, Jon Sopel and Lewis Goodall – three of the UK’s top journalists – host an award-winning daily news podcast: The News Agents.
They’re not just here to tell you what's happening, but why. Expect astute analysis and explanation of the day's news – and a healthy dose of scepticism and the ability to laugh at it all when needed.
Episodes are available every weekday afternoon. You can listen to The News Agents on Alexa, just say "Alexa ask Global Player to play The News Agents"
The News Agents is a Global Player Original podcast.
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You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
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Lewis and Jon tackle listener questions, first exploring the persistent speculation surrounding Donald Trump's connection to Vladimir Putin and whether he deliberately uses major geopolitical events to divert attention from controversies like the Epstein saga. The discussion then broadens to analyze Europe's perceived geopolitical stagnation, its over-reliance on the US, and internal structural challenges affecting its global standing. The hosts also scrutinize Keir Starmer's leadership and Labour's policy approach. Finally, a contentious proposal for 100% inheritance tax generates a fiery debate, highlighting the intense nature of online political discourse.
As part of a special weekend edition of The Sports Agents - Gabby's been at Twickenham - the home of England rugby - to speak to key members of England's Red Roses squad ahead of the start of the Women's Rugby World Cup ! Over 375,000 tickets have already sold for a 32-match home tournament which kicks off on Friday as England bid to avenge their narrow World Cup final defeat to New Zealand back in 2021. Gabby sits down with Mo Hunt and Emily Scarratt , two of England's most decorated players, a...
This episode delves into the Israeli full-scale invasion of Gaza City, examining Israel's stated objectives against the backdrop of a catastrophic humanitarian crisis and stalled ceasefire efforts, as well as accusations of ethnic cleansing and media suppression. It also features an interview with historian Andrew Lownie, discussing his bombshell book on Prince Andrew, revealing alleged financial corruption, the extent of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, and the royal family's efforts to protect him.
The episode first examines the fallout from a High Court ruling forcing an asylum hotel closure, exposing the government's struggle to find alternative housing for migrants and the political quagmire of widespread public opposition to all options. It critiques politicians for offering glib, undeliverable solutions that fuel cynicism and the far-right. The discussion then shifts to the UK economy, detailing Rachel Reeves's fiscal constraints due to rising inflation, borrowing costs, and self-imposed tax restrictions, warning of a potential government malaise reminiscent of the 1970s if clear leadership and solutions aren't presented.
This episode delves into the UK government's contentious decision to proscribe Palestine Action as a terrorist group, leading to mass arrests of peaceful supporters. The hosts and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey debate whether the group's property damage warrants terrorism legislation, raising concerns about the erosion of free speech and the wise application of power. The conversation then shifts to a critical analysis of Donald Trump's ambiguous "security guarantees" for Ukraine, highlighting the skepticism surrounding actual peace prospects amidst "fantasy politics" and Russia's steadfast position.
In a dramatic Oval Office meeting, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and European leaders flattered Donald Trump, securing vague commitments for US security guarantees in a potential peace deal with Russia. Despite the diplomatic theater, key questions remain, including Russia's territorial demands and whether a proposed US-Russia-Ukraine trilateral summit will materialize. The episode highlights the unpredictable nature of Trump's foreign policy and the challenges allies face in navigating his ego-driven approach to international relations, with Russia swiftly rejecting any NATO troop involvement.
European leaders are rushing to Washington for an urgent summit with Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, driven by alarm over Trump's recent social media posts suggesting Ukraine should forgo NATO membership and Crimea. This high-stakes meeting aims to address the looming threat of a 'bad peace deal' that could destabilize Europe's security. The discussions will also highlight Europe's strategic reliance on the US and the precariousness of any 'ironclad' security guarantees from an unpredictable Trump.
Following a controversial meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where Trump appeared to adopt Putin's stance on the war in Ukraine, European leaders are now making an extraordinary mass visit to Washington alongside President Zelensky. They aim to steer Trump away from a potentially disastrous deal that could involve Ukraine ceding territory without strong security guarantees, recalling historical warnings about appeasement and the fragile state of international order. The hurried diplomatic effort underscores the immense anxiety among European nations regarding future US policy towards Russia and Ukraine.
This episode investigates the pervasive opioid crisis in America, highlighting fentanyl's deadly impact, its origins in over-prescription, and the grim realities faced by addicts in places like Las Vegas's flood tunnels. It features personal stories of addiction and loss, alongside a stark warning about the emerging threat of powerful synthetic opioids, nitazines, now appearing in the UK. The report reveals how these substances are causing a surge in overdoses, with dealers experimenting on users, posing a severe and rapidly escalating public health challenge in Britain.
Gabby and Mark answer your Premier League questions ahead of the new season! Which Match of the Day pundit is most fun to watch a match with? Best Premier League game we've ever watched live? And what's our wildest hot take for the season? (09:15) Plus we look back at a big week on the podcast featuring Alan Shearer 's Premier League predictions, Chris Wilder 's survival guide for promoted sides, and David Ornstein 's updates on the biggest transfers. (03:00) 📩 Got a question? Send it here: htt...
The News Agents investigate the persistent right-wing attacks on London, challenging claims of rampant crime and lawlessness under Mayor Sadiq Khan with factual data. They argue that the city is demonized as a proxy for anger against multiculturalism and liberalism, often with racist undertones. The episode then pivots to a groundbreaking, yet ethically challenging, AI product that enables virtual conversations with deceased loved ones, sparking a critical discussion on the commercialization of grief and society's unpreparedness for AI's profound impact.
This episode delves into the US State Department's highly critical report on Britain's free speech and human rights record, examining specific UK laws and instances of perceived US overreach during JD Vance's visit. It then pivots to the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, featuring an expert analysis of Putin's strategic goals and the theatrical nature of Trump's diplomacy. The discussion highlights the potential implications for Ukraine, European leverage, and the realities of modern geopolitics, concluding with predictions for the summit's outcome.
This episode critically analyzes Donald Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard to Washington D.C., scrutinizing his 'hellscape' rhetoric against the reality of low crime rates. It explores his political motivations, authoritarian tendencies, and how his 'law and order' agenda serves as a trap for Democrat rivals, drawing parallels to similar rhetoric in British politics. The discussion then shifts to Las Vegas, examining its economy as a 'canary in the coal mine' for wider US trends, highlighting recession fears, significant job displacement due to AI and automation, and a 'Trump slump' in tourism attributed to Trump's policies.
The News Agents discuss the highly anticipated Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, where a deal potentially ceding Ukrainian territory is expected without Zelenskyy's involvement, raising concerns about its impact on global order and Russia's legitimization. Former Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov offers a critical perspective, asserting that Putin will make no real concessions and aims for total destruction of an independent Ukraine. The episode also touches on the US's transactional approach to European aid and Trump's proposed federal takeover of policing in Washington D.C.
Jon and Lewis answer listener questions, exploring the economic constraints facing radical political parties like Corbyn's Labour or Reform UK, drawing parallels to the Liz Truss mini-budget. They delve into the possibility of Benjamin Netanyahu facing war crime charges and the implications for his international travel. The hosts also examine the media's perceived bias in covering smaller parties, contrasting Reform UK with the Lib Dems, and analyze RFK Jr.'s controversial health policies, discussing their global impact and the broader issue of partisan science. Finally, they offer a historical perspective on current global tensions, arguing that today's world is not uniquely unstable compared to past centuries.
The Championship kicks off this weekend but Sheffield Wednesday players and staff are still waiting to be paid. For the inside story of how the club fell apart, Mark is joined by Chris Powell , the assistant coach who left a few weeks ago. And it's not just Sheffield who are struggling - so who's next and how do we keep finding ourselves here? (02:00) Plus, we look back at this week's shows where we asked... Is Isak to Liverpool the last transfer saga? And should cricket ditch The Hundred ? (18:...
This episode delves into the controversy surrounding Labour's homelessness minister, Roshanara Ali, accused of ending a tenancy to increase rent, a practice her government's new Renters' Rights Bill aims to prohibit. The scandal raises questions of hypocrisy, political fallout among Labour MPs, and the potential undermining of significant housing reforms. The podcast also explores the rapidly developing possibility of a Trump-Putin meeting regarding Ukraine and analyzes Kemi Badenoch's unusually candid public statements.
This episode delves into the complex legacy of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, examining the historical context of President Truman's decision and the arguments for and against its justification. It explores the unique, long-term human and geopolitical consequences of nuclear weapons, including their role as a deterrent or a legitimizer of power. The discussion further analyzes how nations selectively remember their history and the ongoing diplomatic tensions fueled by Japan's unresolved wartime past.
This episode delves into Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial plan for full occupation of Gaza, facing strong condemnation both domestically and internationally. Critics, including former Israeli security officials and the Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, argue that the strategy is counterproductive, fueling humanitarian disaster, undermining Israel's long-term security, and contributing to ethnic cleansing. The discussion highlights the devastating impact on Palestinian civilians, the erosion of Israel's global image, and the complex political landscape influencing international responses.
The News Agents explore the alarming spread of misinformation and increasingly extreme language by some Conservative MPs regarding migrant hotels, contrasting their rhetoric with actual data on crime and immigration. They discuss how Nigel Farage's cunning arguments exploit legitimate concerns, and how the political discourse is shifting from economic impacts of migration to cultural fears of "swamping." The episode also draws a parallel to Japan's recent, unexpected rise of a Trump-inspired far-right party, Sencito, driven by similar anxieties about identity, over-tourism, and immigration.
Investigate the 'Quiet Revival' as a YouGov poll reveals a significant rise in young people embracing faith. Hear personal stories of individuals finding purpose, community, and answers to modern challenges like mental health and social media disillusionment through Christianity. The episode also delves into the potential long-term societal and political shifts this religious resurgence might bring, considering the complexities of church scandals, traditionalism, and a diversifying religious landscape.
We bring you a UK exclusive interview with a genuine WWE icon - Triple H! Mark Pougatch sits down with 'Hunter' to discuss what makes President Trump a 'genius', why wrestling is more real than you might think behind the scenes, and to pay tribute to the late Hulk Hogan . (5:30) Plus, a taste of this week's special interview with Tom Brady , the seven-time Super Bowl winner who rewrote American sporting history, and is now a minority owner of Birmingham City FC . And we reacted to the Lionesses ...
Exclusively on The News Agents, we speak to top democrat Jamie Raskin. He's here on a mission to find out if free speech is under threat in Europe. It’s a big talking point in the MAGASphere - he’s visiting with the judiciary committee. So why did he find himself shouted down at a public event by one Nigel Farage? Later, we talk to Bafta winning actor Adeel Akhtar - famed for Four Lions- about his latest play about money, family, and politics - The Estate. You can visit our website here https://...
After a ninety minute crisis cabinet meeting - driven by the appalling scenes of starvation in Gaza - Keir Starmer emerged with a plan: the UK would recognise Palestine by September. If Israel hadn’t changed its behaviour before then. So, is statehood for Palestine an end goal for UK foreign policy? Or just a punishment for Israel? And what happens if there ARE moves towards peace in the next six weeks - is that rewarded by the UK stepping back from its pledge? We talk to global historian Peter ...
Nigel Farage is no stranger to harsh criticism from his political rivals, but never before has he been linked to prolific paedophile Jimmy Savile. That is, until now. Cabinet minister Peter Kyle has accused the Reform UK leader of being “on the side” of Savile after Farage said he would repeal the government’s online safety act. Farage has now demanded an apology - but Kyle’s doubled down. Are Labour brushing over the genuine unease that many people have about the online safety act? And is their...
A wave of anti-migrant protests and counter-protests took place at migrant hotels around the country this weekend, with police being drafted in from all around. So, how close are we to another summer of riots? We sent The Crime Agent's Andy Hughes down to the protests in Epping as tensions in the community have been escalating for weeks. Later, how safe are the new online age verification measures brought in for the Online Safety Act? The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hs...
This Friday, Jon is joined by Tina Brown - former editor of Vanity Fair and The New Yorker - to discuss her run ins with Jeffrey Epstein, the fallout from the Epstein files, and what this could all spell for President Trump. You can read Tina's substack 'Fresh Hell' here: https://tinabrown.substack.com/ The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/
England are into the Euros final again! Last time, as soon as they won the Lionesses sent a letter to Downing Street demanding equal access to PE for girls. If they wrote again this time, what should they ask for to make football more inclusive for women? Gabby figures it out with Vice Chair of Kick It Out, Chris Paouros, and author of "Get Your Tits Out For The Lads", Sally Freedman . (06:30) Plus we share our favourite bits from this week's episodes - how will Marcus Rashford fit in at Barcelo...
This is the story that Trump just can’t escape. The White House has pushed back after reports that the President was told in May that he was among hundreds of names mentioned in the Epstein Files. As the pressure mounts, and Trump’s attempts to deflect the story fail, can he ‘fake news’ his way out of it? Or could the MAGA faithful finally turn on the President?
For the last two weeks, Donald Trump has been trying to make the Epstein story go away after he claimed there were no missing files and there was nothing more to see. Now, Ghislaine Maxwell - the former partner of Jeffrey Epstein, and the only person to serve jail time for his crimes - has been summoned to a meeting with the US justice department. Why? What information could she offer up that she hasn’t before? Do they want her to name names? Or take Trump’s name out of the frame? And might she ...
