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.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
You can visit our website here https://www.thenewsagents.co.uk/
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In a candid interview, Sir Salman Rushdie reflects on his latest novel, "The Eleventh Hour," which explores mortality after his near-fatal stabbing. He draws parallels between his personal experiences and the global rise of political violence, "shamelessness," and authoritarian impulses. Rushdie also criticizes the BBC's "cowardice" in censorship and advocates for the importance of defending free speech, diversity, and the value of reading in an increasingly fractured world.
Can other sports teach football a thing or two? On today's show Gabby and Mark take your suggestions on how to fix football, using your passion for a massive range of sports. Plus, we look back at The Sports Agents this week: a huge interview with McLaren CEO Zak Brown as Lando Norris could win them the world title this weekend; and we talk about the elephant in the room at struggling Liverpool - grief. 📩 Got a question? Send it here: https://forms.gle/9SBbW1SYWqXLKnRT7 💭 Tell us your thoughts...
This episode examines Labour's recent budget, scrutinizing Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves' defense against accusations of breaking tax promises. It delves into the budget's implications as a shift towards "old Labour" social democracy with higher spending and taxation, contrasting with previous growth pledges. The hosts interview Deputy Leader Lucy Powell, who champions the budget's focus on child poverty and fairer taxes, while navigating tough questions on welfare reform and party unity.
Rachel Reeves' budget revealed substantial tax increases, including frozen income tax thresholds and a lifted two-child benefit cap, leading to the highest tax burden in decades. While the budget appeased Labour backbenchers by addressing key social policies, critics question its impact on middle-income earners and the absence of a clear growth strategy. The episode debates the budget's long-term economic effects and political implications for the Labour government.
The News Agents delve into a major impartiality crisis at the BBC, triggered by the censorship of Dutch historian Rutger Bregman's Reith Lecture, which labeled Donald Trump "the most openly corrupt president in American history." The discussion explores whether the BBC's decision stemmed from legal advice or "cowardice" influenced by Trump's litigious history, highlighting concerns about media independence and the "chill effect" on reporting. Additionally, the episode scrutinizes Nigel Farage's defensive handling of allegations regarding past racist remarks and his party's ties to pro-Russian figures, questioning his political resilience under scrutiny.
The episode delves into Donald Trump's contentious 28-point Ukraine peace plan, reportedly drafted through opaque negotiations and heavily favoring Russia. It highlights the immense diplomatic pressure on Ukrainian President Zelensky, who faces an unenviable choice between national dignity and securing an alliance, while Europe struggles to present a unified, strong front. The discussion also shifts to Trump's surprising political maneuvers, including his 'bromance' with New York Mayor-elect Zoram Mamdani, and the deep divisions emerging within the MAGA Republican base. Finally, the podcast touches upon the BBC's ongoing leadership crisis and staff morale challenges.
Political "Big Beast" Lord Ken Clarke provides a no-holds-barred assessment of the contemporary political landscape, criticizing the current government's lack of vision and Rachel Reeves' "disastrous" budget decisions. He also evaluates Keir Starmer's leadership style, warns about the dangers of populism and the impact of Brexit, and shares profound reflections on his own long, distinguished career, his pro-European stance, and the evolution of British politics.
Only three days after launching, Sky had to take down its TikTok channel for female sports fans. Branded as the "lil-sis" of Sky Sports, it was complete with pink hearts and Barbies. But were they on to something? How do we get more young women hooked on sport? The person who figures that out has hit a goldmine. To try to strike gold, Gabby chats to Chris Paouros , Vice-Chair of the Football Supporters Association, and Ceylon Andi Hickman , Deputy Chief Executive of Football Beyond Borders. Plus...
This episode delves into resurfaced allegations of Nigel Farage's racist and antisemitic behavior during his school days at Dulwich College. Veteran journalist Michael Crick, who first reported on these claims a decade ago, discusses his investigation and compares Farage's past and present responses to the accusations. The discussion explores whether these historical actions impact his current political standing and character, and the broader implications for public figures facing scrutiny over their past.
The News Agents explore the significant challenges facing Keir Starmer, including open calls for a leadership contest and the party's self-inflicted political disarray ahead of the budget. They also uncover a major corruption scandal in Ukraine threatening President Zelenskyy's international standing and domestic support. Finally, the episode highlights Donald Trump's confrontational approach to journalism and his controversial business dealings.
This episode delves into UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's controversial use of a racial slur to defend her immigration policies, sparking a debate on racism, political strategy, and the Labour Party's ethical dilemmas. It also covers the compelling release of Jeffrey Epstein's files in the US, with Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi detailing Trump's reluctant support and the pursuit of Prince Andrew's testimony. Finally, the podcast addresses escalating geopolitical tensions with Russian-attributed sabotage on a Polish railway line, highlighting Russia's increasing boldness in a NATO country.
The episode delves into Home Secretary Shabana Mahmoud's controversial, hardline immigration proposals, including temporary refugee status and extended waiting times for permanent residency. Critics, like MP Stella Creasy, argue these measures are performative and impractical, highlighting Labour's internal divisions and the broader challenges of governing. The discussion also shifts to Donald Trump's unexpected U-turn on releasing the Epstein files, revealing internal GOP pressures and the declining unity within the MAGA movement, particularly with Marjorie Taylor Greene openly challenging Trump.
Former Home Secretary David Blunkett offers a candid critique of Keir Starmer's Labour government, highlighting deficiencies in policy preparation, the handling of the civil service, and internal party management. He stresses the urgent need for Starmer to build a cohesive team and assert control over the domestic agenda, drawing parallels with the Blair years. Blunkett also addresses critical issues like welfare reform, the impact of COVID-era lethargy, and the complexities of immigration, ultimately calling for a shift towards a more communitarian approach to governance.
Never write off a born racer: Sir Mark Cavendish had won 30 stages of the world's biggest cycling race, The Tour de France (even winning one makes a riders career) but he'd been out of the game for 5 years - so no one would give him a job. What happened next was one of the biggest comebacks of all time to put him among the sporting greats. Sir Mark Cavendish joins us on today's show - how did it feel to be written off? Was it fair to call him a “dickhead” as a racer? And after childhood success ...
The podcast uncovers the political storm surrounding 23,000 newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents, which challenge Donald Trump's narrative about his relationship with the convicted sex offender. It explores Epstein's alleged attempts to leverage compromising material against Trump and claims of continued contact during his presidency. A victim advocate shares insights into Epstein's network of powerful individuals, calls for the FBI to release more evidence, and expresses strong doubts about Epstein's official cause of death.
The episode dissects an unexpected crisis in Downing Street, where a briefing alleging a coup by Health Secretary Wes Streeting inadvertently weakened the Prime Minister and exposed internal power struggles, particularly involving Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney. Later, Christine Flack, Caroline Flack's mother, shares insights from her documentary, seeking answers about her daughter's prosecution and the media's detrimental role, advocating for greater accountability. The episode concludes with a brief mention of Donald Trump's intent to sue the BBC.
The episode delves into Donald Trump's billion-dollar lawsuit threat against the BBC for its Panorama documentary, examining the broadcaster's dilemma to fight or settle. Legal analyses suggest Trump's case is weak and aims at intimidation, yet the BBC faces internal challenges regarding impartiality and the broader implications for its credibility. Sir Ed Davey, Liberal Democrat leader, condemns Trump's actions as foreign interference and calls for the BBC to stand firm, highlighting the surprising political alliances formed against the institution.
This episode delves into the recent high-profile resignations at the BBC, triggered by a Panorama edit controversy and Donald Trump's public accusations of bias. It uncovers a deeper internal "coup" orchestrated by politicized board members, such as Sir Robbie Gibb and David Grossman, who allegedly pushed a partisan agenda and targeted journalists. The discussion highlights how commercial rivals and political figures are exploiting these internal divisions, posing an existential threat to the BBC's funding model and global reputation for impartiality.
The concluding episode delves into the aftermath of James Parker's cryptocurrency glitch scheme, where his friends face significant jail terms while Parker himself avoids conviction due to his untimely death. It explores Parker's declining health, his complex motivations for sharing wealth, and the devastating impact on those around him. The episode also uncovers the lingering mystery of Parker's missing millions and a final, unexpected beneficiary, revealing how the system's "glitch" exposed deeper flaws in human nature and left a trail of trauma and unanswered questions.
This Q&A episode explores Trump's White House renovations, the ongoing debate about the British monarchy, and criticisms of Keir Starmer's leadership. It also analyzes the spectacular failure of the new leftist political party "Your Party." Additionally, the discussion covers AI's significant economic impact and a detailed explanation of the Overton Window's influence on political discourse and public opinion.
We've been Traitors mad so Clare Balding joined Gabby and Mark for a slightly different episode of The Sports Agents . Don't worry there's no spoilers from the final! Is she bitter no one listened to her about Alan ? Why did everyone underestimate Joe Marler ? What did Claire tell the producers they should change about the game? And how did Claire know Celia was going to fart? Plus we look back at two huge interviews on the podcast this week with former England manager Gareth Southgate and Euros...
Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai delves into her new book, sharing insights into her personal life beyond public perception, including navigating friendships, mental health, and the constant scrutiny as a global activist. She candidly discusses the financial pressures on her family, the challenges of balancing advocacy with a normal life, and the devastating reversal of women's rights in Afghanistan. Malala also reflects on her resilience, finding self-love, and her unwavering commitment to girls' education worldwide, despite the personal cost.
This episode examines the surprising success of New York's new democratic socialist mayor, Zoram Mamdani, highlighting his charismatic communication, clear policies, and ability to energize young and diverse voters. The discussion then pivots to the UK, with Health Minister Wes Streeting, exploring lessons for the Labour Party regarding authenticity, courage in messaging, and the dangers of political "word salad." It also delves into the troubling resurgence of racism and the importance of hope over hate in addressing societal challenges.
This episode scrutinizes Chancellor Rachel Reeves' pre-budget speech, deemed a "waffle bomb" for failing to clarify upcoming tax increases or reaffirm manifesto pledges. Guests and hosts discuss the political gamesmanship eroding public trust, the questionable timing of the budget, and the need for genuine tax reform. An IFS expert weighs in on the political versus economic choices facing the government, highlighting key areas for structural improvement.
Following a recent train stabbing, politicians are debating a dramatic increase in stop and search powers. This episode critically assesses Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp's arguments, highlighting concerns about racial disproportionality and practical implementation. Former counter-terrorism head Neil Basu provides an expert perspective, discussing the limitations and social impact of stop and search, advocating instead for long-term prevention strategies. The episode concludes with a segment debunking Elon Musk's bizarre and inflammatory claims about rural English communities.
We're back with the penultimate episode of Coining It. Thank you for the brilliant response to the series so far. If you don't want to wait for the last episode on this feed, the entire series is available now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts. In this episode... The party’s over. When one of James’ friends goes to the police, detectives finally connect the dots. James is hauled in for questioning - but doesn't give a monkeys. As greed and paranoia take hold, his last friendship...
King Charles's drastic decision to strip Prince Andrew of his princely title and Royal Lodge residence is an unprecedented move without modern historical parallel, driven by mounting public and parliamentary pressure. This action, aiming to protect the monarchy's future and avoid burdening Prince William, also places victims at the forefront, potentially making Andrew more vulnerable to legal inquiries as a private citizen. The episode further sparks a debate on republicanism versus the monarchy's ability to modernize and serve as a national unifying force.
Did you know the government doesn't fund deaf athletes, because they aren’t allowed to compete at the Paralympics? For 100 years now they’ve been holding their own competition - the Deaflympics - where referee whistles are replaced by flag signals, and starting guns by flashing lights. But no Paralympics means no funding. All because they were born with the so-called “wrong” disability. Great Britain medal hopefuls Charlotte Gower and Nathan Young join Gabby. Plus we look back at the best bits f...
The podcast delves into the devastating conflict in Sudan, questioning the UK's role as British-made military equipment is found with the RSF militia, accused of genocide. It explores why this crisis receives less international attention and the broader ethics of the global arms trade. Additionally, the episode analyzes the unexpected Dutch election outcome, where a centrist leader gained ground against far-right populism, offering lessons for battling extremism in modern politics.
The News Agents delve into Keir Starmer's refusal to recommit to Labour's pledge not to raise income tax, VAT, or national insurance, exploring the dire political consequences of a potential U-turn. They discuss the £20 billion fiscal shortfall projected by the OBR and Labour's strategic dilemma. Additionally, the hosts examine Donald Trump's hints about a 2028 presidential run, debating the clear constitutional barrier and what his continued speculation means for his relevance and the MAGA movement's future.
