In this episode of Behind the Numbers, we discuss the hits and misses of the Labour government’s first year in power.

While there have been some clear wins over the past 12 months, particularly on the international stage, domestic politics have felt far less controlled. Our panel evaluates the previous year, as well as suggesting where the government goes from here as it enters its second year.

Host Philippa Lamb is joined by Iain Wright, ICAEW’s Chief Policy and Communications Officer; Frances Haque, Santander UK’s Chief Economist; and David Williamson, Chief Political Commentator at the Daily Express.

Links 

• ICAEW: Economy hub: https://www.icaew.com/technical/economy
• ICAEW Policy: How the government can deliver growth: https://www.icaew.com/about-icaew/regulation-and-the-public-interest/policy/how-the-government-can-deliver-growth 

Host

Philippa Lamb

Guests

• Iain Wright, Chief Policy and Communications Officer, ICAEW
• Frances Haque, Chief Economist, Santander UK
• David Williamson, Chief Political Commentator, Daily Express

Producer

Natalie Chisholm

Episode first published: 14 July 2025

Podcast recorded: 7 July 2025