Logo

Are Labour "clutching at straws" on growth?

en

January 30, 2025

TLDR: Listeners question Rachel Reeves' growth speech, debate Labour charisma, and discuss if media should focus more on Liberal Democrats.

1Ask AI

In this episode of Politics from the New Statesman, hosts Hannah Barnes, George Eaton, and Rachel Cunliffe dive into Labour's latest strategies for promoting economic growth, following Rachel Reeves' recent speech. The discussion centers around whether Labour's efforts are genuinely impactful or merely a desperate attempt to shift public perception amidst economic challenges.

Key Takeaways from the Episode

  1. The Vibe Shift: George Eaton describes Rachel Reeves' speech as an "attempt at a vibe shift" to address growing economic concerns and redefine Labour's narrative from a negative outlook to a more growth-centric approach.
  2. Economic Growth's Connection to Living Standards: The core argument presented was that economic growth is crucial for improving wages and public services. The hosts emphasized the need for higher productivity to ultimately enhance living standards for the general population.
  3. Reviving Old Ideas: The hosts noted that some strategies proposed by Labour, such as developing the Oxford-Cambridge corridor, have been around for years. While these ideas may reflect necessary infrastructure improvements, critics argue they hint at a lack of fresh, innovative strategies.
  4. Regional Development Concerns: There is a notable concern regarding the focus on the southeast, with calls for more attention to northern regions like Manchester and Leeds. Many fear that the initiatives may overlook broader regional needs, potentially leading to further economic disparity.
  5. Conflicting Messages: A listener raised the question of contradictory policies—specifically, how growth initiatives might clash with Labour's commitment to net zero. Jason Cowley's piece in the New Statesman suggests that the overall messaging appears panic-driven, a sentiment echoed in the hosts' analysis.

The Charisma Challenge

A recurring theme discussed is whether Labour suffers from a "charisma problem" under Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves. While they are perceived as policy-focused and serious, some listeners believe they lack the engaging presence that might draw public support. Starmer’s approach emphasizes results over personality, betting on substance rather than charm to win votes.

The Role of Media Coverage

The episode examines how media narratives have shifted with Labour's current standing, suggesting that the press is struggling to adapt from the chaotic landscape of the Conservative Party's recent history. Many believe that Labour’s stable majority requires a change in media dynamics, away from sensationalism to a focus on governance and policy evaluation.

Listener Questions and Insights

A listener voiced concerns about the media's focus, particularly on the Liberal Democrats, and whether they deserve more attention compared to other parties. The hosts discussed how media coverage tends to favor parties that demonstrate clear, captivating leadership and how the Lib Dems could benefit from more proactive strategies.

Key Observations on Labour Messaging

  • Labour policies are framed as aiming for sustainable and regionally balanced growth, but this message must be clearer to avoid public skepticism about their effectiveness.
  • The conversation highlighted tensions within Labour regarding economic policies and the re-emphasis on GDP, suggesting members are concerned such a focus might overlook true living standard improvements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Labour's new approach seeks to emphasize growth amidst a struggling economy, the discussion reveals deeper challenges within the party related to messaging, regional inclusivity, and internal contradictions. As they strive to reshape their identity under Starmer's leadership, Labour's journey will hinge on their ability to communicate their vision effectively and respond to both public and media sentiments.

Was this summary helpful?

Recent Episodes

"It's guided by six rats": The battle for a life-changing drug

"It's guided by six rats": The battle for a life-changing drug

The New Statesman Podcast

For some with epilepsy, valproate is the only medication which can control their seizures. But for decades women say they were not made aware of the risk this drug posed for their unborn children.Today we know around 11% of the children born to women who take valproate during pregnancy have major congenital disorders. 30-40% experience other conditions including delays in early development, poor language skills, and lower intellectual abilities. There’s also an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder.Restrictions on how the drug should be used have since been tightened. But this week on Insight we hear from neurologists who believe the system might have overcorrected as a result of this tragedy, causing more harm than good.Kate Lamble is joined by Janet Williams, Hannah Barnes, and Dr Dominic Heaney. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

February 05, 2025

How do you solve a problem like Margaret Thatcher?

How do you solve a problem like Margaret Thatcher?

The New Statesman Podcast

In 1989, following the shock resignation of the chancellor, Nigel Lawson, Margaret Thatcher sat down with veteran broadcaster, friend, and former Labour MP Brian Walden for a 45 minute interview. It was a disastrous encounter for Thatcher, that ultimately spelled the beginning of the end of her 10 years in power – a year later she resigned.The story behind this is told by Rob Burley in his book Why is this Lying Bastard Lying to Me? Searching for the Truth on Political TV – which has now been adapted into a two part dramatisation, Brian and Maggie, starring Steve Coogan and Harriet Walter. The show raises bigger questions, too: why does the political interview matter? And how do you solve the riddle of Margaret Thatcher on screen?Tom Gatti is joined by TV producer and editor Rob Burley, and the New Statesman’s TV critic - Rachel Cooke.Read: Rachel Cooke's review Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

February 03, 2025

Returning to Labour is John McDonnell's "greatest wish"

Returning to Labour is John McDonnell's "greatest wish"

The New Statesman Podcast

Andrew Marr interviews John Mcdonnell MP about next steps after the end of their 6-month suspension from Labour Party for voting against the two-child benefits cap.

January 31, 2025

Beg borrow or steel

Beg borrow or steel

The New Statesman Podcast

Discussion on the potential future of Scunthorpe Steelworks, owned by Chinese company Jingye, and its impact (2500 jobs) on UK economy, with views from various government, politician, and journalist figures.

January 28, 2025

AI

Ask this episodeAI Anything

The New Statesman Podcast

Hi! You're chatting with The New Statesman Podcast AI.

I can answer your questions from this episode and play episode clips relevant to your question.

You can ask a direct question or get started with below questions -

Sign In to save message history