PoliticsJOE

In this powerful PoliticsJOE interview, Stephen Kapos, a Holocaust survivor and lifelong activist, reflects on his childhood in Nazi-occupied Hungary and explains why he believes the lessons of the Holocaust must apply to everyone. At 88, Kapos speaks about his opposition to the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank, criticising what he sees as the misuse of Holocaust memory to justify the suffering of Palestinians.



The conversation explores the rise of far-right politics, racism, political accountability, and the challenges facing pro-Palestinian activists in Britain. Kapos also discusses his experiences within the Labour Party and his belief that remembering the Holocaust must mean opposing persecution and dehumanisation wherever they occur. This interview raises difficult questions about history, human rights, freedom of expression, and the responsibility to stand against injustice.




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In this PoliticsJOE PMQs analysis, Keir Starmer confronts Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch over her changing position on the Iran conflict. After previously supporting the initial US-Israeli strikes and calling for stronger British involvement, Badenoch faced criticism from Starmer when she appeared to distance herself from that stance. The Prime Minister accused her of making a major U-turn on the serious question of committing Britain to war.



Laura and Seán break down the heated parliamentary exchanges, examining the debate over military intervention, Britain’s relationship with the United States, and the risks of further escalation in the Middle East. The episode also explores the domestic political consequences of the conflict, including rising fuel prices, the cost of living, and the government’s response to economic uncertainty.



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In this PoliticsJOE episode, Andy Burnham’s Labour Conference speech is examined for its ambitious proposals to reshape Britain’s economy, public services, and political system. Burnham sets out a vision focused on affordable housing, stronger public control of essential services, lower energy costs, and greater investment in working-class communities. He also calls for electoral reform and a reassessment of Britain’s long-term relationship with the European Union.



The discussion explores whether Burnham’s proposals represent a genuine break with decades of economic and political policy or an ambitious programme that will be difficult to deliver. From housing and water to energy, social care, Brexit, and regional inequality, this episode examines the ideas behind his speech and the challenges of turning promises into lasting change.

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In this PoliticsJOE interview, Michael Waldman, director of the documentary The Tony Blair Story, offers an inside look at one of the most influential and controversial figures in modern British politics. Drawing on his extensive interviews with Blair, his family, and former colleagues, Waldman explores the former prime minister’s ambitions, leadership style, political relationships, and enduring influence.




The conversation examines Blair’s record in office, including the Good Friday Agreement, public service reforms, and the decision to join the 2003 Iraq War. Waldman also discusses Blair’s reflections on Iraq, his relationships with figures such as Peter Mandelson and Alastair Campbell, and his continued work through the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. What does Blair’s legacy reveal about political power, leadership, and accountability in Britain?




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In this PoliticsJOE interview, writers and activists Naomi Klein and Astra Taylor explore the growing alliance between Silicon Valley billionaires, Donald Trump, and far-right political movements. Drawing on their book End Times Fascism: And the Fight for the Living World, they examine how economic inequality, climate change, artificial intelligence, and political instability are reshaping the struggle for power.




The conversation explores their argument that some powerful technology executives and political leaders are preparing for a future shaped by crisis rather than working to solve its underlying problems. Klein and Taylor discuss the influence of tech billionaires, the relationship between capitalism and authoritarian politics, and the challenges facing democratic movements. They also consider how communities can defend democracy and build a fairer, more sustainable future.




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In this PoliticsJOE interview, Zarah Sultana sets out her vision for transforming British politics and building a new left-wing movement through Your Party, alongside Jeremy Corbyn. She explains why she believes the Labour Party has moved away from working-class communities and argues for a political alternative focused on solidarity, equality, and economic justice.



From public ownership and workers’ rights to affordable housing, wealth redistribution, and the future of the British left, Sultana outlines the changes she wants to see across the country. She also discusses the challenge of confronting established political parties and the rise of Reform UK. Can Your Party turn its ambitions into a lasting political movement and reshape Britain’s political landscape?




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In this PoliticsJOE interview, investigative journalist Sam Bright examines who finances Reform UK and how wealthy donors have helped Nigel Farage build the party’s political influence. He discusses the financial networks behind Reform, the interests of major donors, and the questions raised by large political contributions.
The conversation explores the links between wealth, business interests, and political power, including the role of cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and the debate over transparency in party funding. Bright also examines concerns about the influence wealthy backers can have on British politics and why Reform UK’s funding deserves scrutiny. Who is providing the money, what motivates these donors, and what does it mean for British democracy?


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In this PoliticsJOE interview, investigative journalist Carole Cadwalladr examines the growing influence of Peter Thiel and his technology company Palantir on the British state. She explores how Palantir’s data-analysis software has become involved in areas including the NHS and national defence, raising questions about privacy, public accountability, and Britain’s dependence on major US technology firms.




The conversation investigates the scale of Palantir’s UK government contracts, the political connections of its leadership, and the risks of relying on private technology companies for sensitive public services. Cadwalladr argues that Britain must take digital sovereignty seriously and scrutinise the relationship between Silicon Valley, government, and national security.




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In this PoliticsJOE episode, the team examines whether Andy Burnham is preparing to reopen the Brexit debate and whether Britain could eventually rejoin the European Union. Burnham has said Brexit has done “more harm than good” and pledged to examine several options for the UK’s future relationship with Europe, including a customs union, the single market, and full EU membership.




The discussion explores the economic consequences of Brexit, Britain’s relationship with European neighbours, and the political challenges of reversing the decision to leave. With Burnham promising to set out options around the next UK–EU summit, this episode examines what closer European integration could mean for trade, immigration, sovereignty, and the future of British politics.




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In this PoliticsJOE PMQs analysis, Andy, Laura, and Seán examine a heated parliamentary clash between Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Prime Minister Keir Starmer over Donald Trump’s escalating conflict with Iran. Badenoch challenges Starmer over Britain’s military response, while the Prime Minister argues that any UK involvement must have a lawful basis and a clear plan.



The discussion explores whether the Conservatives are pushing Britain towards another prolonged Middle East conflict, drawing comparisons with the 2003 Iraq War. From military intervention and international law to the UK–US relationship and the lessons of past wars, PoliticsJOE breaks down the arguments and the risks behind the political confrontation.

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