Whitehall Sources

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, host Calum MacDonald and guest Kirsty Buchanan engage with Ambassador Peter Ford, who shares his insights on the current situation in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime. The conversation explores the implications of the regime's collapse, the rise of ISIS and Al-Qaeda, and the consequences of international interventions. Ford emphasises the dire state of affairs in Syria, the complexities of choosing leadership, and the responsibilities of the UK and international community in addressing the ongoing crisis.The conversation delves into the complexities of military intervention in Syria, reflecting on past decisions made by the Labour Party and the implications of those choices. It transitions into a critique of David Lammy's performance as Foreign Secretary, exploring the challenges he faces in a rapidly changing global landscape. The discussion then shifts to the pressing issue of the housing crisis in the UK, examining Labour's ambitious housing targets and the feasibility of achieving them amidst planning challenges.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss Keir Starmer's recent speech outlining the Labour Party's new foundations, missions, and milestones. They delve into the six specific milestones set by Starmer's government, analysing their feasibility and the implications for public accountability. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the civil service in implementing government policies and the dynamics of political strategy in the current landscape, including the significance of immigration as a public concern. The episode concludes with reflections on the appointment of Chris Wormald as the new cabinet secretary and what it means for the future of government delivery.

Calum and Kirsty are joined by former Special Advisors Nikki Da Costa and Sam White to discuss the process to come regarding the much-talked-about Assisted Dying Bill - what's in store? Who can say what? And who will say what?

This conversation reflects on the life and legacy of John Prescott, a significant figure in British politics and the Labour Party. The hosts, Calum MacDonald, Kirsty Buchanan, and Adam Boulton, share personal anecdotes and insights about Prescott's character, his role in the New Labour movement, and his impact on political discourse. They discuss his authenticity, sense of justice, and the unique qualities that made him a memorable politician. The conversation also touches on the changes in political culture and the challenges of finding authentic leaders in today's political landscape.

In this podcast episode, former Health Department Special Adviser, Ed Jones, joins Isabel Hardman - Assistant Editor of The Spectator and author of Fighting for Life - The Twelve Battles that Made Our NHS, and the Struggle for Its Future - along with Calum and Kirsty to discuss the current state of the NHS under the Labour government, focusing on Wes Streeting's recent announcements regarding reforms. They explore the implications of league tables, accountability, and the morale of NHS staff, while also considering the historical context of NHS reforms. The conversation delves into the role of consumer choice in healthcare, the importance of political capital, and the urgent need for social care reform. Ultimately, they reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing the NHS as it navigates a complex landscape of expectations and demands. Isabel critiques the lack of coherent reform despite significant funding and highlights the historical challenges the NHS has faced since its inception in 1948. The discussion also delves into the future of the NHS, emphasising the need for social care reform and addressing the mixed healthcare landscape that has emerged.

Donald Trump is set to return to the White House, having promised action on issues including immigration, the economy and the war in Ukraine. He looks likely to enjoy plenty of support for his political agenda in Congress after his Republican Party regained control of the Senate. In his victory speech, Trump vowed: "I will govern by a simple motto: Promises made, promises kept. We’re going to keep our promises." Kirsty and Calum discuss the implications.

In our first ever crossover episode with the Holyrood Sources podcast, we assess the implications of the UK Government budget.The first section of both podcasts features former advisers from across the political spectrum.The podcasts then return to their own list of guests and commentators and analysts.Search Holyrood Sources to listen to our sister podcast.GUEST LISTSTEPHEN FLYNN, SNP Westminster leader and MP for Aberdeen South; WENDY CHAMBERLAIN, Liberal Democrat Chief Whip and MP for North East Fife; HARRIET CROSS, Conservative MP for Gordon and Buchan and on the Scottish Affairs Committee; DR ZUBIR AHMED is Labour MP for Glasgow South West; Dr JEEVUN SANDHER, Labour MP for Loughborough who sits on the Treasury Committee; HEATHER IQBAL was a political adviser and media spokesperson for Chancellor Rachel Reeves for three years in opposition; ALLIE RENISON, Associate Director at SEC Newgate and former Government Business Adviser; GRAINNE GILMORE director of research & insights at Cluttons property consultants; JOÃO SOUSA, Deputy Director Fraser of Allander Institute; ALEXANDER BROWN, Westminster Correspondent for The Scotsman; CAROLINE WHEELER, Political Editor of The Sunday Times; DAVID PHILIPS, Associate Director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, who leads on devolved and local government finance; GRAEME LITTLEJOHN, Director of Strategy and Comms for the Scotch Whisky Association

Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss various pressing political issues in the UK, including prison overcrowding, the Labour Party's involvement in US elections, and the upcoming budget. Kirsty shares insights from her experience in the Ministry of Justice, emphasising the complexities of the criminal justice system and the need for reform. The conversation also touches on the political implications of Labour's actions and the fiscal strategies being employed by the government.