The Lowdown from Nick Cohen

France is heading for a far right take over In this latest Lowdown podcast Nick Cohen talks in-depth to with Financial Times journalist Victor Mallet, a former F.T Paris correspondent about his book "Far-Right France: Le Pen, Bardella, and the Future of Europe." Mallett explores how the French far-right, led by Marine Le Pen and her protege Jordan Bardella, has become a mainstream political force after decades of gradual growth since the 1950s. Nick and Victor discuss how the far-right has capitalised on immigration concerns, economic grievances, and media influence to gain power, while the traditional left and centre-right parties have struggled to maintain relevance. Victor Mallet explains how the far-right's seemingly more pragmatic approach and media support have helped them transform from a fringe party to a dominant force in French politics, with significant implications for the European Union's future and the broader European project, and possibly the hard-won peace of Europe. The Far Right is on the march across Europe Nick and Victor discuss how the far right is across the march across Europe, aided and supported by Trump's White House and Putin's Kremlin. They discuss the rise of far-right and nationalist populist parties across Europe and the United States, noting that countries with histories of fascist rule, like Germany and Italy, are now seeing significant support for these parties. They attribute this phenomenon to factors such as immigration, economic challenges, and the "Fox Newsification" of media, which fuels a culture war. Nick suggests that governments' currently tough stances on immigration, mirrored by leaders like Sir Keir Starmer in Britain and Friedrich Mertz in Germany, fail to resonate positively with voters, highlighting the stubborn complexity of addressing anti-immigrant sentiment at the ballot box. Read all about it! Victor Mallet FT @VJMallet is a journalist, and was formerly the paper's Paris correspondent in the last of three stints in France for the FT. He is also an author, most recently of Far-right France: Le Pen, Bardella and the Future of Europe (Published by Hurst, and available now.) Victor is currently still based in Europe. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

English nationalism will destroy the UK Nick Cohen talks with Lowdown regular, author and historian James Hawes, about the on-going damage wrought on the UK by English nationalists and their failed Brexit project. Now current polls indicate that the same nationalist charlatans look likely to take power at the next general election. James said a Whitehall mandarin's prediction of the future break-up of the UK after the next election is looking increasingly likely: Labour has failed to solve the insoluble shitshow of Brexit - making it ever more likely that a radical right party reform UK led by Nigel Farage - will take power at the next election. This new resurgence of extreme English nationalism along with its loony unworkable policies will be rejected by the people of Northern Ireland and Scotland - and possibly even Wales - and calls for secession from the UK by constituent nations could soon become deafening. Northern Ireland will be the first to leave a failing United Kingdom to escape Farage & co Both Nick and James agree - Brexit has become like the mad relative squirrelled away in the attic by the embarrassed Victorian family. James predicts Northern Ireland/Ulster will want soon want to unite with the now much richer Republic of Ireland rather than face an increasingly impoverished and culture war-wracked future at the hands of incompetent English and divisive nationalists. Scotland will likely follow suit- dumping Labour for the Scottish nationalists. The future of the United Kingdom has never looked so bleak. Read all about it! James Hawes @jameshawes2 Renaissance man, historian, writer and novelist. James, the author of The Shortest History of England and The Shortest History of Germany. His latest in the series, The Shortest History of Ireland, is out next month. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mandelson crisis engulfs an already embattled Starmer Nick Cohen talks to John McTernan about the Labour Party's deep political crisis in the wake of the struggles, leadership challenges, and ideological direction. They explore athe implications of the Peter Mandelson scandal, the factionalism within the Labour Party, and the broader context of the collapse of Christian democracy, which has created opportunities and challenges for the centre-left. John McTernan emphasise the need for Labour to reconnect with its ideological roots and address key issues like housing and AI, while Nick highlights the importance of strong leadership and communication. They also discuss potential leadership candidates like Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham, and the broader political landscape, including the rise of Reform and the Greens. They discuss the urgency for Labour to define a clear purpose and coherent political economy to address the challenges of the modern era. Labour's struggles under Starmer John McTernan and Nick discuss the current dire state of the Labour Party under Keir Starmer's leadership, now plunged into dee crisis over the Peter Mandelson crisis. They criticise Starmer's administration for being overly factional and ostracising lmore eft-wing members like Andy Burnham and Ed Miliband. John suggest that the Labour Party needs to engage with more left of centre ideas to create a more balanced and effective political strategy. They emphasise the importance of owning the future and fairness in politics, which the Labour Party currently lacks. Nick and John agree that Starmer's government lacks a clear purpose and direction, leading to internal conflicts and ineffective governance. Read all about it! John McTernan @Johnmcternan is a political strategist and commentator, and a former senior advisor to the Labour Party. John was Tony Blair's Director of Political Operations from 2005-2007 before acting as special advisor to two cabinet ministers under Blair's Number 10 successor - Gordon Brown. Other roles since then has been as a columnist at The Scotsman and as Director of Communications for Australia's Labor party prime minister Julia Gillard. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen talks to Mark Urban about the UK's deep defence crisis Nick Cohen & Mark Urban discuss changing dynamics of the American-British alliance and its huge implications for British defence strategy. Mark Urban and Nick discuss how recent actions by Donald Trump have created uncertainty about America's role as a traditional ally, particularly regarding NATO and European security. They explored how Brexit has weakened Britain's position in Europe at a time when European cooperation is needed more than ever, and criticise the current Labour government's lack of leadership in addressing defence needs. They talk about how Britain's nuclear deterrent remains dependent on American cooperation, though Mark notes that Britain could maintain its deterrent for about 10 years even if American support was withdrawn. They also discuss how the British military has become increasingly vulnerable and underfunded, with defence spending at just 2.5% of GDP compared to 7% in 1961 when Mark was born. Mark and Nick discuss the changing dynamics of the British-American alliance, with Mark highlighting that the decline in their relative military and economic power began during World War II. They also discuss how the special relationship has evolved over time, with Mark referencing his book "The Edge" from 2015, which warned about the increasing defence spending by China and Russia and the need for European self-reliance. They agree that the current situation with Donald Trump's administration represents a significant inflection point in this long-term decline, though they acknowledge that the underlying changes have been gradual rather than sudden. Real all about it! Mark Urban was for many years a defence correspondent for BBC Newsnight and later its Diplomatic Editor. He has hosted the Crisis Room podcast @crisisroompod. He also writes for tHE Sunday Times. He's also a historian and author with books including Big Boys Rules, Rifles, TF Black, Tank War, Skripal Files, Red Devils. Mark's latest book Tank is out as a paperback later this year. Mark is also a Trustee for The Imperial War Museum @I_W_M . Mark's Susbtack is called War and Peace. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump is increasingly insane - period! Nick Cohen talks with U.S commentator and author Claire Berlinski about the increasingly dangerous and insane presidency of Donald Trump which Claire sees as a pattern of national sabotage rather than mere incompetence, impulsiveness, or corruption, highlighting the destructive impact of his policies on US global power and alliances. The last week has shocked the U.S's one-time allies with his reckless threats against Denmark and Greenland, his abandonment of NATO, the filthy gang of tyrants and international gangsters he's corralled into his absurd and corrupt "Board of Peace", the stupid and offensive insults he's levelled against the allied war dead and his ridiculous and insane rants. They explore recent events and developments in both the United States and Europe, including Trump's isolationist approach, Britain's response to US actions, and the implications of Trump's statements and actions on American power and credibility. Claire expresses deep concern about the dangers posed by Trump's presidency, particularly regarding nuclear weapons, and explored the potential for Europe to assert its power by reducing its economic and military dependence on the U.S. Reckless Republicans fail to act against the Mad King of the U.S. Claire says, "This isn't just one madman. This is a significant segment of the American public and they don't show much sign of understanding what they've done. Having seen that this can happen, how does anyone put the faith in the United States that was granted to the United States, almost unthinkingly by many nations to the point that Britain completely united its defence and security with American institutions? Claire adds "I can't explain how an entire political party could be hostage to this madman in the way that they are, even to the point that they are forfeiting their own children's security and futures." Donald Trump represents an existential threat to every human being Clairs says, "It's overwhelmingly obvious that this is. An existential danger to every living human being. Donald Trump has the power to launch as many as 4,000 nuclear weapons unilaterally. He requires no one's permission, and if he gives the order, should do it. His, his subordinates are, are, the law says they have to execute it." Read all about it! Claire Berlinski @Claire Berlinski is an American author and commentator based in Paris. Claire's regular Substack column The Cosmopolitan Globalist - is a must read for anyone looking for keen analysis of insight into the continuing Trump Trauma in the U.S. - a crisis which has serious implications for all of us and the current world order. Claire also co-hosts a podcast - Critical Conditions - with Dan Perry Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump & Putin - the despots at war with our world In this week's Lowdown, Nick Cohen talks to Professor Sam Greene - the Director of the Russia Institute at King's College London about Vladamir Putin and Donald Trump, and how about how much longer Russia can endure the continuing carnage and humiliation of its seemingly never ending aggression against Ukraine. What Putin intended to be a few days of Blitzkrieg in February 2022 will soon enter its fifth gruesome year and has already lasted longer than the so-called "Great Patriotic War" - which is how the Russians describe World War 2. That war led to more than 20 million Soviet Union deaths. The current slaughter is sending 1,000 Russian soldiers a week to the cemetery or the casualty ward. How much longer can Putin last? Sam Greene and Nick Cohen examine the resilience of Putin's corrupt authoritarian regime despite current challenges, analysing how the system maintains stability through widespread compliance and fear among citizens while retaining imperial assumptions about Russian dominance. They also discuss Russia's political future after Putin, considering the potential for authoritarian systems to evolve while maintaining control, and compare this to similar dynamics in the United States. Sam reveals that Putin has now equalled the number of political prisoners incarcerated by Cold War era Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. Putin and Trump - Parallels in Russia and US Sam and Nick discuss the parallels between authoritarianism in Russia and the United States, focusing on how both regimes exert control through fear and compliance rather than direct force. Sam highlights the complacency of elites and institutions in the US noting how they accommodate the current administration's demands, similar to the Russian system where power is concentrated and opposition is silenced. They also touch on the effectiveness of Western sanctions against Russian oligarchs, which initially aimed to encourage a shift towards rule of law but ultimately failed as the oligarchs prioritised profit over safety. Their chat concludes with a reflection on the potential for political change, emphasising that authoritarian systems often change only after they have already begun to unravel. Read all about it! Professor Sam Greene @samagreene is Director of the Russia Institute @KingsRussia of King's College London. Sam has authored or co-authored two main books: "Moscow in Movement: Power & Opposition in Putin's Russia" (2014) and "Putin v. the People: The Perilous Politics of a Divided Russia" (2019, co-authored with Graeme Robertson). Sam's Substack - TL;DRussia - is a must read for anyone wanting to keep up with events in Putin's Russia. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen talks to influential leading US commentator Charlie Sykes who has a grim warning for the West about Trump and the far-right revolutionaries now in charge of the White House America's dark revolution threatens the world "We're not dealing with something that's going to be fixed by a midterm election. We are dealing with a fundamentally revolutionary time - a revolutionary age in which America has gone from being a reliable ally and a role model to being a genuine threat to being a genuine threat to western values, to western democracy and frankly to the western economies as well." Trump's ICE - the real and current threat faced by all Americans Charlie talks to Nick about the recent fatal shooting by an ICE agent in cold blood of mother of three Renee Good this week. Trump has awarded ICE a huge $170 billion budget - far beyond what most of the world's militaries could hope to expect. Charlie says, "This was police murder in the same city in which George Floyd was murdered by police, and, and I don't think that this is going to go away anytime soon ... Is this going to be the pivot point? Is this going to be a turning point? And it often turns out not to be, but in this particular case, this was not just a one off. This is the inevitable result of this deliberate policy of fear." Trump intends to demoralise his political enemies Charlie believes Trump and his acolytes are determined on permeating a feeling of hopelessness in their political opponents, adding, "It is painful and a lot of Americans are really struggling with that right now. And of course, that's what authoritarians want. They want people to be completely demoralised, to be completely depressed. You know, pessimism is a great weapon. But I'll be honest with you, we struggle with that every single day and this week feels." Read all about it! Charlie Sykes @SykesCharlie is a leading highly respected United States conservative political commentator who was formerly editor-in-chief and founder of the highly influential website The Bulwark. Charlie has been a leading Never Trump Conservative since Trump stood for the presidency in 2015. Charlie's Substack - To the contrary is a must read, and his regular podcast - also called To the contrary - a must listen. He has also been a columnist and author for the progressive channel MSNBC. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlotte Leslie, a former Conservative MP, discusses the rise of the radical right in politics and the potential for a Reform-led government in the UK, emphasising the need to take the group seriously despite their challenges. She and Nick Cohen explore the underlying divisions in British society that led to Brexit, using her experience as an MP for Bristol Northwest as an example, and discussed Farage's political strategies and leadership style. The conversation concluded with discussions on immigration and integration, the challenges of discussing Islam and political Islam, and the future of the Conservative Party, including its approach to Farage and various international issues. Conservative Party's Path Forward Charlotte and Nick discuss the challenges and future of the Conservative Party. Charlotte suggested that the party is going through a difficult period but will eventually emerge stronger, comparing it to a bushfire that rejuvenates the roots. Nick expresses concern about the lack of a clear conservative argument against Farage, noting that the Tory press has largely abandoned its traditional values. Both agree that significant changes and reforms are needed for the party to survive and thrive in the long term. Conservative Party's Strategic Challenges Charlotte, discusses the Conservative Party's approach to Nigel Farage and his views on Russia-Ukraine, suggesting that the party should focus on exposing Farage's positions rather than attacking him personally. She criticized the party's handling of migration issues and the lack of a referendum on the Lisbon Treaty, which she believes could have prevented the toxic Brexit vote. Charlotte also highlights the need for a nuanced approach to Israel-Palestine issues, advocating for depolarisation and thoughtful analysis. She acknowledged a shift in public opinion regarding Israel's actions in Gaza, with some younger Conservatives questioning the country's response. Read all about it! Charlotte Leslie @CharlotteLeslie is the Director of the Conservative Middle East Council @cmec_uk and a Goodwill Ambassador for @GrainFromUA . She was the Conservative MP for Bristol North West Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen and Dr Bharat Tandon, academic, novelist & Booker Prize judge, discuss Jane Austen's astonishing legacy before delving into a detailed analysis of her enduring popularity and literary significance. They explored themes of claustrophobia in Austen's works, particularly how her novels depict the constraints of patriarchal structures and economic relations for women, while also examining the misinterpretation of her writing by modern figures like Milo Yiannopoulos. The discussion concluded with an analysis of Austen's subtle political commentary in "Mansfield Park" and her innovative narrative style, emphasising the importance of returning to the original texts for a deeper understanding of her work. Bharat and Nick discuss the theme of claustrophobia in the works of early 19th-century women writers, particularly focusing on Jane Austen. They explore how Austen's novels, such as "Sense and Sensibility" and "Pride and Prejudice," depict the inescapable constraints of patriarchal structures and economic relations for women. Bharat highlighted the significance of the number 27 in Austen's fiction, representing the age at which women might lose economic security and be forced into undesirable marriages.Nick compares Austen's portrayal of a claustrophobic society to modern experiences of social media, where individuals are constantly under scrutiny. They also discussed Austen's innovative narrative style, which allows readers to connect with marginalised female characters while highlighting their societal constraints. Slavery in Austen's 'Mansfield Park Bharat and Nick discuss the portrayal of slavery in Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park," analyzing whether the novel is complicit with the social injustices of its time. Bharat argues that while the novel acknowledges the economic and ethical presence of slavery, it does not easily draw the conclusion that Austen is complicit with it. Instead, he suggests that the novel highlights the socio-economic guilt of the early 19th century without offering a solution, reflecting the characters' anxious avoidance of discussing slavery. Read all about it! Dr Bharat Tandon is a writer and lecturer at the University of East Anglia's School of Literature, Drama and Creative Writing. A graduate in English literature from Trinity College, Cambridge, Bharat then taught at Cambridge from 1995 to 2006, and at Oxford from 2006-11, before joining the UEA in 2012. His research and teaching interests take in British literature from 1700 to the present day, and American literature from 1900. His doctoral research was on Jane Austen, and he has worked in detail on other nineteenth-century novelists such as Charles Dickens, George Eliot, and Thomas Hardy, as well as on British Modernist writers such as Henry Green. In addition to his academic research and teaching, he been active since 1994 as a commentator on contemporary British and American fiction and culture, writing regularly for publications such as The Times Literary Supplement and The Daily Telegraph. Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Lowdown Christmas special with Rev. Richard Coles Richard Coles is a man of many parts and many talents - a former rock star turned vicar, who inspired the BBC TV series "Rev" and continues to be a prominent figure in religious and media circles, presenting radio shows and writing thrillers. With Lowdown host Nick Cohen, Richard explores the declining role of Christianity in Britain, with discussions about the changing nature of religious practice and the tension between moderate and more politically charged forms of faith. The pair talk about the relationship between religion and politics, particularly focusing on how Christianity is used as an identity marker and the challenges faced by institutions like the Church of England in addressing societal changes. Richard and Nick examine the current state of modern conservatism, discussing its shift towards destructive politics and the decline of the centre-right in Britain. Declining Christianity in Modern Britain Richard and Nick also discuss the declining role of Christianity in Britain, noting a drop from 71% Christian in the 2001 census to 42% in 2021. Richard explores the tension between those with a part-time faith who attend Christmas services and committed Christians who hold strong beliefs. Christianity, Politics, and Social Change Richard and Nick discuss the relationship between religion and politics, particularly focusing on how some people use Christianity as a marker of identity against liberalism and Islam. Richard explains that while many people affiliate with Christianity for social reasons, true faith involves transformation and challenge. The conversation then shifted to the Anglican Church's stance on same-sex marriage, with Richard noting that while the Church has tentatively approved blessings for same-sex couples, conservative elements are pushing back against this progress. They discuss the rise of post-liberalism in both America and Britain, with Nick suggesting that homophobia is a key driver of this movement, which Richard agrees was often true. Conservative Church's LGBTQ+ Opposition Nick Cohen and Richard Coles discuss the Conservative grouping within the Church of England, particularly Holy Trinity in Brompton, London,, which has opposed LGBTQ+ inclusion and embraces a pessimistic, ahistorical view of Christianity. They highlight the influence of figures like Paul Marshall, who owns media outlets critical of the Church of England, and connect this movement to broader right-wing ideologies. The conversation touches on how these groups have shifted rapidly, becoming increasingly hostile to LGBTQ+ individuals and embracing conspiracy theories. Decline of Center-Right in Britain Nick and Richard discuss the decline of the centre-right in Britain, noting how extreme positions attract more attention and funding, particularly from the American market. They highlighted the increasing polarisation and rancour in political discourse, comparing it to historical conflicts like the Wars of the Roses. Richard shared his experiences as a vicar, including conducting services like a "Blue Christmas" for those who find the holiday season difficult. They also discussed the challenges faced by the Anglican Church in reconciling its traditional views with the changing societal norms on issues like gay marriage. Nick expresses concerns about the future of institutions like the Church of England and the BBC, while Richard suggested that such institutions might be missed once they are gone. Read all about it! The Rev. Richard Coles is an author, radio presenter and a former 1980's rock star - one half of the 1980's pop duo sensation - The Communards (with Jimmy Somerville) and, before then, Bronski Beat! Richard's latest thriller is Murder at the Monastery: A Canon Clement Mystery Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump and MAGA see European values and societies as the real enemies Nick Cohen talks to the leading US commentator Charlie Sykes about the impact of the highly controversial US National Security Strategy 2025 which has overturned 80 years of post-war security strategy and threatens the very social and political fabric of Europe, as well as its security. Incredibly, in this document, the US says it will support nationalist far right parties in overturning European governments and says it will do all it can to destroy the European Union. The document - described as "obscene" by one former US ambassador to the EU - also strikes a dagger to the heart of NATO, clearly marking out its former security partners in the Alliance as the real enemies while failing to criticise the brazen illegality and aggression of Putin's Russia. The US has "switched sides" to stand shoulder to shoulder with our enemies Charlie's stark conclusion: "This is what they're saying to the entire world. And again, the loathing for the democracies of Western Europe, the loathing for the allies who have been with us since World War II really can't be overstated. It is deep and, quite frankly, there has to come a moment when I think the rest of the world has to say that the United States has switched sides." Discussion summary Charlie and Nick discuss the implications of the new strategy for American foreign policy, particularly regarding relations with Russia and Europe. The discussion explores how the strategy aligns with Moscow's vision and promotes radical right-wing parties, while contrasting conservative reactions between the US and UK. The conversation concluded with an examination of Trump's presidency and its potential dangers, including immigration policies, weaponisation of justice departments, and the broader implications for American democracy and political norms. Read all about it! Charlie Sykes @SykesCharlie is a leading highly respected United States conservative political commentator who was formerly editor-in-chief and founder of the highly influential website The Bulwark. Charlie has been a leading Never Trump Conservative since Trump stood for the presidency in 2015. Charlie's Substack - To the contrary is a must read, and his regular podcast - also called To the contrary - a must listen. He has also been a columnist and author for the progressive channel MSNBC. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour's threat to the ancient right of Trial by Jury Nick Cohen and Francis FitzGibbon KC - a prominent barrister and former chair of the Criminal Bar Association - discuss the proposal by Labour politicians, including Sir Keir Starmer and David Lammy, the Justice Secretary, to restrict the right to trial by jury, which Nick finds astonishing given Starmer's previous advocacy for human rights and anti-racism. Francis argues against the proposed changes, which Nck thinks could expose ethnic minority defendants to unchecked racism. Francis argues that once the politicians have removed the right to trial by jury - it will be gone for ever. Throwing out the baby with the bathwater! Attacking jury trials to deal with deepening courts crisis The discussion focuses on the legal system's backlog crisis, with Francis describing it as a disaster with 80,000 cases and delays extending to 2030. Nick and Francis discuss the report by former Appeal Court judge Sir Brian Leveson which Francis criticises for recommending strict curtailment of jury trials, a proposal he viewed as unnecessary and ineffective. Nick raises concerns about the independence of judges reviewing jury trials, suggesting that judges might be inclined to support removing juries from complex cases. Francis argues that judges are no better than juries in investigating human behaviour and coming to the right verdict. Juries, Francis FiztGibbon KCargues, are not just vital for the administration of justice - they give ordinary members of the public a stake in the system of rules and laws by which they are governed. Read all about it! Francis FitzGibbon KC was chair of the Criminal Bar Association (2016-2017) and has a wide-ranging and diverse trial practice covering all types of serious crime (prosecuting and defending). High profile cases include R. v Marten (gross-negligence manslaughter of a baby), R. Mohammadi (the Colindale allotment murder) and R v Alemi (fraud by successfully working as a psychiatrist with forged educational certificates). Francis has been recognised as a leading barrister in Crime for many years (Tier 2 Silk), and is ranked in the Legal 500, as ‘a highly intelligent Silk’. Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary Nick Cohen and Professor Alan Manning - economist and one of the country's leading experts on immigration - discuss the impact of immigration on Western democracies, including its role in recent and upcoming elections, as well as the resurgence of right-wing movements driven by immigration-related fears. Alan Manning, a professor at the London School of Economics, explains the complexities of immigration policy and the challenges of balancing migration capacity with global inequality. Nick and Alan discuss various policy approaches, including temporary protection measures and the need for international cooperation, while criticising overly simplistic solutions and highlighting the importance of realistic immigration policies. Political charlatans such as Nigel Farage mis-sold Brexit claiming it would help the uK "take back control" of its borders. Ironically, they may helped helped create huge increases in net immigration in recent years, as well as encourage the small boats bringing asylum seekers across the Channel from France. Now the same political grifters are relentlessly campaigning on the issue of immigration to get votes and win power. It's time to explain the issues driving immigration and explode the myths of immigration, rather than exploit them. Read all about it! Professor Alan Manning - @alanmanning4 formerly Chairman of UK's Migration Advisory Committee has been investigating the issue for his new book, Why Immigration Policy Is Hard: And How to Make It Better is published by Polity Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Center-Left's Struggle Against Radical Right Nick Cohen talks to The Guardian's chief political correspondent Rafael Behr discuss the failure of the Western centre-left to effectively counter the rise of the radical right, using examples from the United States and Britain. They highlighted the Democrats' inability to stop Trump's return to power and Labour's struggles under Keir Starmer despite a significant majority. The discussion touched on the fragmentation of the centre-left vote into Greens and socialists, which has weakened their ability to present a unified front against their opponents. Rafael's chilling warning of the UK's political direction Rafael is very pessimistic about the future as a result of Labour's ability to fight the Radical Right: "it is increasingly my view that the evidence that we need - historically - to track the trajectory of where a lot of the salient politics that we're in at the moment leads is into the abyss, right? Although we don't know exactly what is in that abyss, we know that, you know, nationalism that is on this sort of self-reinforcing, spinning outward ever into, increasingly extreme versions of itself leads to really, really dark places..." Rafael adds, "the best arguments we have against extreme nationalism are, for fuck's sake, read some history! Look at who these people are! Just, you know, pay attention to who, what these people are, what they're saying, who their friends are. What a bunch of nasty, angry, racist, thieving, kleptocratic, psycho self-serving, venal bastards they actually are! Look at that. Just look at them in the face! Look in the face of the Gorgon! Be petrified and don't vote for it. Right. And that argument, which I feel is, should be incredibly compelling, isn't working." Read all about it! Rafael's recent book Politics: A Survivor's Guide: How to stay engaged without getting enraged is published by W.F.Howes Ltd and available at Amazon and in all good bookshops. Support the show You can also read his wonderful columns in the Guardian. His X handle is @rafaelbehr Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TO RUSSIA WITH LOVE - FROM EUROPE'S RADICAL RIGHT, AND EX-BREXIT PARTY MEP NATHAN GILL! Nick Cohen and Arthur Snell - the author and ex-diplomat - discuss political corruption and treason - following the sentencing of Nathan Gill, the former Brexit Party MEP and ex-leader of UKIP in Wales. They discuss the deply disturbing case of Gill- convicted of eight counts of bribery, after an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing uncovered how he received payment in return for making statements which supported the presence of pro-Russian media outlets in Ukraine. Arthur explains the enduring love affair between Putin's Russia and Europe's Radical Right politicians. Gill and others have collaborated with pro-Kremlin politicians to spread anti-Ukrainian propaganda. Nick and Arthur explore the unique aspects of corruption across different countries and highlighted an upcoming trial involving charges of bribery related to pro-Kremlin propaganda activities. The discussion concluded with an examination of the complex relationship between the radical right in Western countries and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russian Influence in European Politics Arthur explains the widespread pro-Russian sentiment among far-right European politicians, noting examples like Farage's admiration for Putin and Tice's connection to a Russian financier. He emphasises that while Nathan Gill's influence was limited, his propaganda echoed broader Russian efforts to insert pro-Russian narratives into mainstream media Nick highlights how Russian disinformation, amplified through social media and media outlets, can shape public opinion, referencing instances like Nigel Farage's paid appearances on Russia Today, the Putin propaganda channel now banned from UK airwaves. Both Arthur and Nick agree about the reluctance of British authorities to investigate Russian interference, particularly in the context of Brexit, due to political sensitivities. Read all about it Arthur Snell's substack column is Not all doom & his regular inciteful podcast is Behind the Lines. Arthur's first not fiction book is How Britain Broke the World: War, Greed and Blunders from Kosovo to Afghanistan, 1997-2022 . Nick Cohen's @NickCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Read Nick's latest column, Can Europe resist Trump's gangsterism? Does it have the willpower to try? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen and Robert Saunders, the author and academic, discuss historical political party splits in Britain, particularly in the 1920s when the Liberals split and Labour formed, contrasting with the current situation where both left and right-wing votes are fragmented. Nick and Robert analyse the current political landscape, noting that while the right-wing vote is divided with Nigel Farage being popular, the centre-left could dominate British politics if it remains united. The discussion highlighted the challenges of multi-party democracy under the first-past-the-post system and the potential for new parties like the Greens and a Corbyn-led radical left party to impact the political landscape. They talk about the decline of the two-party system in the UK, highlighting how Labour's popularity has dropped significantly since the 2024 election. Labour barely won a third of the vote in 2024 but still secured a majority of seats under the first-past-the-post system, leading to concerns about the system's fairness. Robert explains that the decline of the two-party system can be traced back to the 1950s, when Labour and the Conservatives together accounted for 97% of the vote, compared to 65% by 2010. They also discuss how Brexit and the implosion of the Liberal Democrats in 2015 temporarily reversed this trend, but Robert believes these were anomalous elections and that the longer-term pattern of decline continues. Tory party is dying on its feet Possibly the most dramatic and most influential event driving current politics is the slow agonising death of the Conservative Party. Robert says "This is a party that used to be anchored in all sorts of important institutions that was very deeply rooted in the world of British business. That was connected to institutions like the Church of England, the armed forces, the kind of voluntarist culture, and that also meant it had a lot of kind of different sources of information and ideas flowing into it. It's either cut itself off from those things, or those things have essentially died. So it's become a kind of tree with no roots, and then I don't think it's entirely surprising, therefore, that it crashed down in the way that it did in 2024. " He adds "The biggest danger for the conservative party was that they took refuge in comfortable myths about their defeat. And I think that's what they've been doing." Read all about it! Robert Saunders - @redhistorian - author and academic. Author of "Yes to Europe! The 1975 Referendum & Seventies Britain". "A jaw-dislocating page turner"(Andrew Marr). Co-director the Mile End Institute @MileEndInst , Reader Queen Mary's @QMHistory Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen talks to and Ronan McCrea about the current state and future challenges of the gay rights movement. Ronan expressed concerns about the potential reversal of LGBTQ+ gains due to weakening secular and liberal forces, arguing that the movement's expansion beyond gay rights has become counterproductive and risks alienating straight allies. The discussion concluded with Ronan emphasising the need for continued vigilance and moderate strategies to maintain long-term gay rights gains, while acknowledging the challenges of balancing conservative and liberal approaches in an evolving political landscape. Andrew and Ronan discussed the scheduling of a program to air at the end of October, prioritizing it over live political news. They then delved into the topic of gay rights, with Ronan expressing concern that the gains of the past 60 years could be reversed due to the weakening of broader forces such as secularism and liberalism. Ronan emphasized the importance of maintaining the unprecedented freedom already achieved rather than pushing for further expansions of the LGBTQIA+ agenda, which he believes could make the movement more vulnerable to setbacks. Ronan warns, "It's really dangerous for us, because it's not only in the US Interestingly in the UK, in France, the numbers of people who say that homosexuality is morally acceptable are now declining. For the first time in 40 years, they've been, they had been just steadily rising. Rising, rising. you know, the, the change is not yet huge, but there is a kind of, there's a definite change. It's no longer rising. It's falling, and we are, people are much more vulnerable than the gay People are much more vulnerable than they realise". Ronan adds "All of the political dynamics are, are, are now that were, that had sustained the gay rights movement and given it energy for 50 years are now fading." He says of LGBTQ+ campaigner, " by making gay rights appear part of a movement that challenges all their, all conservatives cherished norms. They make gay rights their top target, and they alienate moderate conservative support that the gay rights movement absolutely will need to be long term viable." Gays rely on straight majority for their rights Ronan articulates a tragic fact about gay people and theirn reliancer on the straight majority for their rights. " it'd be lovely if gay people could say, screw you. We're not gonna think about what straight people think of us, " he says. We're just gonna get on and, and determine our own future. But until they find they form some gay micro state, that's not gonna happen. That's just the tragic reality of gay politics. We will always depend on what I call in the book, the Kindness of Strangers, and that is. I think the straight, the straight majority." Read all about it! Ronan McCrea @RonanMcCrea is professor of constitutional & European law at @ucl His book 'The End of the Gay Rights Revolution - How Hubris and Overreach Threaten Gay Freedom is published by @politybooks Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can the Centre hold in France? Nick Cohen discusses the dire state of French politics with journalist, author & academic Agnès Poirier. They discuss the current chaos of politics in France in recent months which has seen 4 prime ministers come and go in barely a year. Extremists on the far right and far left are becoming ever more dominant - their voices ever more shrill. In 2017, Emmanuelle Macron became the youngest man since Napoloeon to head the French state and become President, voted in off the back of his own centrist En Marche movement. In 18 months time, Macron's second term and presidential career come to an end. And there are growing fears about what next presidential elections of May 2027 could herald a major extremist upset, as disappointed French political opinion seems to rush to the extremes of either the hard left firebrand Jean-Luc Mélenchon - defacto leader of La France Insoumise - or Marine Le Pen and the far right Le Rassemblement National (The National Ralley, formerly the National Front). Agnès Poirier explains the disillusionment and the current political landscape divided among Islamified left, failed Macron-centered centre, and radical right factions. Agnès and Nick explore Macron's challenges in maintaining power despite a lack of majority support, the rise of extreme parties, and the shifting dynamics within the French socialist movement. The discussion concludes with an examination of France's welfare system, the transformation of the National Rally under Marine Le Pen, and concerns about the potential rise of far-right leaders in future elections. French are more scared of hard left that far right What if the Centre continues to collpase and the French are left with a choice between extreme right and left? Agnes Poirier says people are more concerned and worried about Jean-Luc Mélenchon tand the left than the far right of Marine Le Pel, saying, "They [the Left] they go to the National Assembly dressed in t-shirts, um, or in football, shirts; they insult each other. They just want insurrection. They look dangerous. They speak dangerous, and they don't care. Whereas Marine Le Pen party is much more clever in the way they present themselves. They don't insult people. They're not loud; they put on a suit, and so at least on the surface, they are not scaring people and, and it works. It does work. Um, you'd rather have somebody who's not insulting you or shouting at you the way they do with their hard left." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is is already too late to save US democracy? In this week's The Lowdown, Nick Cohen asks Edward Luce - the Washing-based editor & columnist of the Financial Times - is it already too late to save the US? Trump is already trying to gerrymander the critical 2026 mid-term elections by demanding re-districting of states like Texas to produce more Republican states. Also, he repeatedly threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act to further threaten freedom, and sends ICE agents and troops into peaceful Democrat cities to intimidate them. Nick and Edward discuss the institutional purges, widespread corruption, and the chilling effect of Trump's personal vendettas on free speech and political opposition. Edward Luce, explores how Trump's presidency has eroded traditional American values and institutions, noting the widespread fear and self-censorship that has developed across society. Fear stalks America Luce says fear stalks the US and that the richest are the most afraid because they feel they have the most to lose. Trump's henchmen denounce Democrats as terrorists and traitors, while destroying the freedoms of much of the mainstream media. Edward says, " [Trump's] not only getting away with it, but sort of doing it so easily, steamrolling these guardrails, these traditions so easily... because he comes at the end of 20/30 years worth of declining trust in institutions, and of growing cynicism about institutions and about the media, not just about elected politicians." No King's Day but no objective for the opposition either! Luce says the US needs a Martin Luther King type figure to lead the opposition against Trump's growing tyranny, adding "What is it that the No Kings Rally (on October 18th) is demanding? I don't know. It's, it's saying Trump's a king. He's behaving like a king. He's doing what he likes. There's no restraint on him, all of which is true. But what's the deliverable here?" Edward adds, "Democracy is about. Winning and winning is about building coalitions. And building coalitions is an additive game. You actually link arms with people you might disagree with on important issues like, for example, abortion, or gun control, whatever it might be, or taxes and you hold your nose and say, look, we've got something bigger in common here." Read all about it! Edward Luce @EdwardGLuce is Associate Editor, Financial Times, a US-based writer/columnist. Author of books including The Retreat of Western Liberalism, &, Time to Start Thinking. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Cohen and historian and author James Hawes explore the rise of far-right sentiment in Britain and the Conservative Party's transformation, including their evolving definition of English identity and embrace of discriminatory immigration policies. Historical parallels were drawn between contemporary political events and pre-World War I era, with particular focus on the party's strategic shifts and potential mergers with right-wing factions. The conversation concluded with analysis of current political dynamics, including the challenges of governing under a first-past-the-post system and the implications of right-wing. populism on British society. The end of the UK is nigh James predicts the Tories' lurch to the far right will inevitably lead to the brea-up of the UK, if, as he sees likely, Reform and the Tories enter into some sort of merger. An ethno-nationalist far right government is bound to boost the prospects of nationalists elsewhere in the UK, particularly the SNP in Scotland and Plad Cymru in Wales. Rise of Far-Right Sentiment in Britain Nick and Jim discuss the rise of far-right sentiment in Britain, highlighting events such as Tommy Robinson's march and Elon Musk's controversial statements. They examine how right-wing figures like Nigel Farage and Robert Jenrick have embraced discriminatory immigration policies targeting black and brown migrants. Nick and James also critique the lack of pushback from the conservative press and party, while noting the emergence of pro-Palestinian sentiment and anti-Semitic attacks. They draw parallels to the Weimar Republic era, expressing concern about the current state of British society. Read all about it! James Hawes @jameshawes2 Renaissance man, historian, writer and novelist. James, the author of The Shortest History of England and The Shortest History of Germany. His latest in the series, The Shortest History of Ireland, out In the new year. Nick Cohen's @NichCohen4 latest Substack column Writing from London on politics and culture from the UK and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.