The Political Party - podcast cover

The Political Party

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Comedian, Broadcaster (and former political adviser) Matt Forde presents The Political Party, the show where renowned politicians and experts open up and give their most honest, revealing and often hilarious answers.

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Episodes

Show 297 - Christmas Special Part 2 - Yvette Cooper and Emily Thornberry

Well, this Christmas Party goes up a gear in the second half... Yvette and Emily continue the festivities with a detailed analysis of Labour's crime policy and a conversation you won't get anywhere else... Emily's love of puffins. It really is the show with everything. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Buy tickets to The Political Party , live at The Duchess Theatre here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/ Forthcoming guests include: 23 Jan: Emily Maitlis and ...

Dec 27, 202257 min

Show 296 - Christmas Special Part 1 - Yvette Cooper and Emily Thornberry

Merry Christmas! What better way to celebrate the birth of Jesus than with Yvette Cooper, Emily Thornberry and a gin and tonic? This is the perfect end-of-year party with two of Labour's biggest stars. Yvette and Emily are on top form in this riotous first half. As well as the sharpest political analysis there's a great story about Yvette and Ed Balls' worst Christmas and a song written and performed by Emily Thornberry. It's even better than it sounds. Buy tickets to The Political Party , live ...

Dec 21, 202242 min

Show 295 - *Rachel Reeves LIVE*

The Shadow Chancellor is on rollicking form in this hilarious, lively and impassioned interview. Rachel is steeped in economics, having worked for the Bank of England (at the same time Matt Hancock, more on that later). She sets out the dividing lines between herself and the Tories and explains the different decisions Labour would take if they win the next election. Rachel has only been Shadow Chancellor for a year and a half but in that time she has helped salvage Labour's economic credibility....

Dec 06, 20221 hr 15 min

Show 294 - Stephen Noon

Stephen was Chief Strategist to the Yes campaign in the 2014 independence referendum. Following that he trained to be a Jesuit priest and is now an academic at Edinburgh University. He's led a fascinating life and the last few years have led him to some very interesting conclusions. In this thoughtful and considered interview he explains how both sides of the constitutional debate in Scotland can win, but only if they're prepared to change the way politics is done. He also has some sober advice ...

Nov 29, 20221 hr 6 min

Show 293 - *Jake Berry LIVE*

The former Chair of the Conservative Party doesn't hold back in this revealing and heartfelt interview. He tells the inside account of both recent Conservative Leadership Elections and what he told Rishi Sunak about certain members of the government. Clearly concerned about the direction of the government, Jake explains his own brand of conservatism and why 'levelling up' is so important to him and his constituents. Jake also tells the hilarious story of when Boris Johnson jilted the Northern Re...

Nov 15, 20221 hr 28 min

Show 292 - *David Dimbleby Live*

This is a broadcasting legend as you've never heard him before. David Dimbleby is as thoughtful and incisive as you'd imagine, but he's also devilishly hilarious. Finally able to say what he really thinks, he delivers his analysis of politics, broadcasting, the BBC, the monarchy and pyjamas in that familiar voice. This is crammed with great stories about interviewing titans like Thatcher and Blair, as well as the reality of hosting election night TV and Question Time. It's one of the funniest an...

Nov 09, 20221 hr 38 min

Show 291 - Gavin Barwell

Gavin has a unique perspective on politics, government and the Conservative Party having served as both an MP and the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff. Unusually he was an MP first, but having lost his seat in 2017, was hired by Theresa May to be her most senior adviser. Gavin takes us inside the Brexit negotiations, with some surprising insights on some of Europe's major players. It's also a defence of Theresa May and the values of public service and how she contrasts with some of her successors...

Nov 04, 20221 hr 1 min

Show 290 - *Grant Shapps Live*

When the Prime Minister could fall at any point, talk to someone who knows what should happen next. Grant Shapps is that someone and has a very clear view on how the next Conservative leader should be chosen. He's a crucial power player and will be instrumental in any future leadership contest. Grant also has some brilliant stories about serving in Boris Johnson's Cabinet, what it was like doing the Covid TV briefings and how Liz Truss sacked him. As well as being a passionate advocate of centre...

Oct 19, 20221 hr 41 min

Show 289 - *Mick Lynch Live*

One of the most prominent public figures of the year demonstrates why he has captured the imagination of the country. Mick Lynch has connected with people in a way that few union bosses ever will, with his dry sense of humour and direct style. He gives a fascinating insight into RMT negotiations with various transport companies, and tells us what happened off camera during some of his most notorious TV exchanges. He also reveals what his most conservative opinion is and why he'd never have a com...

Oct 06, 20221 hr 36 min

Show 288 - David Gauke

What better time to interview a moderate former Tory MP who spent 7 years in the Treasury? David Gauke does not disappoint and is fully uncorked in this entertaining analysis of the Tories' current economic policy and the people driving it. David's story is fascinating. He went from leading Cabinet minister to ex MP within just a few months and now considers himself politically homeless. How did this happen to one of the Tories' most prominent and capable performers? It's probably not that hard ...

Sep 28, 20221 hr 12 min

Show 287 - Tom Blenkinsop

Patriotic. Principled. Hilarious. Tom Blenkinsop is all three of those things and so much more. This is full of brilliant stories of trade union fist fights, his father's involvement in D Day and searing political sense. Tom was the Labour MP for his hometown from 2010 to 2017. He stood down at the 2017 election in protest against Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. That was just one of many principled decisions Tom has taken in his life. He's a member of the Army Reserve and explains his support for mo...

Sep 16, 20221 hr 1 min

Show 286 - *Joanna Cherry - LIVE at the Edinburgh Festival*

One of UK politics' most formidable talents shares her unique experience of modern politics. Whether it's leading the legal battles against Parliament's unlawful prorogation, or speaking up for the rights of women, Joanna is someone speaks from the heart and the head. Her views on sex-based rights have proven controversial in her own party and she talks movingly about the reaction of some of her colleagues and the lack of support she's received in the face of abuse. This is a thoughtful, conside...

Aug 23, 20221 hr 6 min

Show 285 - *Anas Sarwar - LIVE at the Edinburgh Festival*

The charismatic (and cheeky) leader of Scottish Labour returns to the Political Party to boss Matt about again. Anas continues to be hilarious and profound in equal measur and speaks movingly about Scotland's role in the Empire, Labour politicians on picket lines and what becomes the major topic of discussion: Comic Con and the awful things he saw there. Best enjoyed with a big bag of jelly peaches. (It'll make sense). Buy tickets to The Political Party, live at The Duchess Theatre here: https:/...

Aug 18, 20221 hr 7 min

Show 284 - *Gordon Brown LIVE at the Edinburgh Festival*

Chancellor for ten years and Prime Minister for three, Gordon Brown is one of the most important and impactful politicians in British history. He's also a phenomenal raconteur and his anecdotes about Scottish football and Nelson Mandela will have you howling with laughter. With tales spanning his time in office and since, Gordon demonstrates why he's such a unique politician and character, just as animated today about inequality as he ever was. This is a glorious mix of high-level political insi...

Aug 08, 20221 hr

Show 283 - *Alan Johnson Live*

One of the most popular, formidable and purely likeable politicians in the country returns for a cracking analysis of the Conservative Leadership race and the state of the Labour Party. To many, Alan is the greatest Prime Minister we never had and in this hilarious and honest chat, he shows why he's still so highly rated. Alan is a rare find in politics: an exceptional Cabinet-level talent who really didn't want to be Prime Minister. As well as all his other assets what he really has is warmth a...

Jul 27, 20221 hr 16 min

Show 282 - Sam McAlister

This is the astonishing inside account of Prince Andrew's Newsnight interview. The details will blow your mind. Sam McAlister produced the show for years and was able to convince guests to give interviews when no-one else could. In her new book 'Scoops', she takes us behind the scenes of various interviews including Julian Assange, Steven Seagal and Amy Schumer. It's a fascinating inside account of how she manages to secure the biggest guests as well as honesty about the mistakes made along the ...

Jul 19, 202252 min

Show 281 - *Lindsay Hoyle LIVE*

Oh boy. This is a cracker. The Speaker of the House of Commons is a raconteur without equal and holds court in this riot of an episode. Passionate about democracy, impartiality and fairness, Lindsay Hoyle shows how you can make the Commons function more effectively without sacrificing its unique atmosphere. One episode with Lindsay really isn't enough, you'll be left wanting so many more stories from him. His tale about taking Nancy Pelosi to Coronation Street is one of the best you'll ever hear...

Jul 13, 20221 hr 24 min

Show 280 - *David Davis LIVE*

The first ever Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union delivers his comprehensive verdict on Boris Johnson's government. David is typically candid and gives a great insight into the Brexit negotiations and his relationship with Michel Barnier. He also tells us the reason he resigned from Theresa May's government when he did (and who he told in advance), plus the riveting story of how he came to call on Boris Johnson to resign. This is packed with brilliant inside stories from the most ...

Jun 29, 20221 hr 23 min

Show 279 - *Gary Neville LIVE*

This is even better than you've imagined. Sharp, funny and full of passion, Gary Neville explains why he's become so politically motived in recent years and exactly what shaped his politics: from the sense of solidarity he got from Alex Ferguson, to the nuance he gets from his Conservative-supporting mother. Naturally funny, deeply thoughtful and charged with energy, you'll forget you're listening to an ex-footballer. Glory, glory Gary Neville. Buy tickets to The Political Party, live at The Duc...

Jun 15, 20221 hr 45 min

Show 278 - *Wes Streeting - LIVE*

Wes Streeting's profile is rising by the second. Touted as a future Prime Minister by allies and opponents, he's one of Labour's most impressive and compelling performers... and he's still only 39. Passionate, funny and blessed with a clarity of communication, it's no wonder he's the politician everyone is talking about. Wes has led an incredible life and so some of his relatives. In this highly entertaining interview you'll get to know Wes Streeting the politician and the person. Buy tickets to...

Jun 02, 20221 hr 30 min

Show 277 - *Lisa Nandy LIVE*

If you want to know why Lisa Nandy is one of Labour's most popular politicians, you're about to find out. Naturally funny, deeply heartfelt and razor sharp, this is everything you want from a Political Party episode. She shares her frustration with 'Levelling Up', the hilarious story of reshuffle day and, of course, her love of towns. Best enjoyed with a can of Holsten Pils. Buy tickets to The Political Party, live at The Duchess Theatre including the next show with WES STREETING on Monday 30 Ma...

May 20, 20221 hr 26 min

Show 276 - Vladimir Ashurkov

Vladimir Ashurkov is one of Vladimir Putin's most outspoken and prominent critics. Executive Director of Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, he was granted political asylum in the UK. In this candid interview, Vladimir reveals the reality of Navalny's incarceration and shares his hopes for significant change in Russia. Buy tickets to The Political Party, live at The Duchess Theatre including the next show with LISA NANDY on Monday 16 May here: https://www.nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-pol...

May 11, 202240 min

Show 275 - *Andrew Marr - LIVE*

You are about to be thoroughly entertained by one of the best raconteurs in the history of the show. Andrew Marr is one of the most gifted broadcasters that Britain has ever produced and he shares hilarious stories from his wonderful career. Now that he's left the BBC he can be honest about what he really thinks and his analysis of British politics is exceptional. This is a show packed with powerful moments, including the mistakes Andrew thinks the media made in their coverage of Iraq, and his e...

May 04, 20221 hr 31 min

Show 274 - *Rosena Allin-Khan - LIVE*

Rosena Allin-Khan isn't like most politicians. As well as being one of Labour's brightest frontbench talents, she's also an A&E doctor. She served on the frontline throughout the pandemic, before the vaccine and before PPE. Her heroism doesn't stop there. Rosena recently visited Ukraine to help deliver humanitarian aid. She talks about both of these experiences and so much more in this spellbinding interview which was part of the rescheduled Christmas Special. So. have some mulled wine, a mi...

Apr 25, 202259 min

Show 273 - *Rosie Duffield - LIVE*

Rosie Duffield's election in 2017 was a national news story, she became the first ever Labour MP for Canterbury. In 2019 her majority increased tenfold. She tells the remarkable story of how she became a politician in the first place and how she won the unwinnable, twice. Rosie has only been an MP for five years but in that time has made a name for herself as someone who speaks her mind, however uncomfortable the subject matter. At times an emotional listen, Rosie opens up about challenging the ...

Apr 20, 20221 hr 31 min

Show 272 - *Jacob Rees-Mogg LIVE*

It's Chriiiistmaaas! The rescheduled Christmas Special is a cracker. Mixing the hilarious with the serious and the personal, Jacob Rees-Mogg shares his view of the Prime Minister, how he personally deals with disagreement and abuse, as well as the things in life that annoy him - especially about written communication. More importantly, what does he make of Matt's impersonations of Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak? And will Matt dare to do his Jacob Rees-Mogg impression to the man himself..? This is...

Apr 12, 20221 hr 3 min

Show 271 - *James Cleverly LIVE*

One of the best guests in the history of the show returns. James Cleverly loves being a Foreign Office minister and tells Matt about the realities of the job and how the UK is perceived around the world. Regularly on the airwaves defending the government, James is a powerful advocate for the people and causes he believes in and he talks openly about why he's so keen to be publicly supportive. He also talks honestly about class, race and the impact of the job on his family and, in a more surprisi...

Apr 06, 20221 hr 28 min

Show 270 - Geoff Norcott

Everyone's favourite Conservative comedian joins Matt for a brilliant discussion about class and politics. As well as touring and appearing on various TV shows, Geoff is also on the BBC Diversity Board and tells Matt exactly what it involves and why he's so passionate about increasing class representation at the BBC. The pair also discuss the realities of being a right-of-centre comedian. Would Geoff ever vote Labour? If so could he ever tell his audience? How do his fans feel about the Tories a...

Mar 28, 20221 hr 11 min

Show 269 - Paul Johnson (IFS) - *Spring Statement Special*

Strap in for the best briefing on the Spring Statement you're going to get. Paul Johnson from the IFS returns to explain everything. This is an enthralling independent analysis of Rishi Sunak's announcements this week and the impact they're likely to have. More than that, it puts the public finances and the current global economic forces into context. How does this crisis compare to the 1970s and 1990s? What can the Bank of England really do about inflation? Would a windfall tax on energy compan...

Mar 25, 202252 min

Show 268 - *Tom Tugendhat - LIVE *

The first declared candidate in the next Tory leadership contest paints a sharp contrast with the current Prime Minister. Tom served in Iraq and Afghanistan and his shock at our withdrawal from Afghanistan is still raw. A clear thinker with strong values, Tom is a powerful communicator and offers a type of Conservativism many would prefer. He also loves Haribos and reveals which MP he's seen naked. So, something for everyone. Buy tickets to The Political Party, live at The Duchess Theatre includ...

Mar 22, 20221 hr 22 min
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