Politics At Sam and Anne's

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy look at how political communication has changed – from Keir Starmer’s government paying influencers to promote its message, to Andy Burnham putting himself front and centre of the social media operation.

Sam has a scoop on how much it all costs.

Elsewhere, former No10 chief of staff – Morgan McSweeney – has been speaking about his time in No10 and how he tried to launch a thinktank in Downing Street to develop policy.

Plus, with energy bills forecasted to rocked up near £450 in January, how worried are the government and what can they do to help families?

As the TUC Congress continues in Brighton, some of Labour’s big beasts have been baring their teeth – with Angela Rayner using an after-dinner speech to land some blows on defence secretary Wes Streeting.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy reveal what was said and whether it was all taken in good fun....

Meanwhile, the economic picture looks bleak as John Healey prepares for his first budget. Sam has a scoop on how one economic forecast could make or break his spending plans.

And Reform remains ‘100% confident’ two of the biggest donations in British political history were legal. But will that position shift as ministers face growing questions over how a proposed retrospective change in the law would work in practice?

Will a record breaking £72 million change the face of British politics?

After receiving two of the biggest political donations in history - £36 million each from crypto billionaires Ben Delo and Christopher Harbone.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine the political fallout - are the donations legal, will the government legislate to stop them and how does this vast sum of money influence British politics?

Elsewhere at the TUC conference in Brighton, the unions are ramping up the pressure on the government to deliver more for workers.

Plus, could former Prime Minister – Liz Truss – really be plotting a return to frontline politics?

Having spent the summer trying to ease the cost of living, is a new tourist tax about to hit domestic holiday makers in the pocket?

The government is giving mayors additional powers to introduce a levy on hotel stays, with no cap on how much they can charge.

With the tourism industry already angry, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine the move and why the timing maybe a little uncomfortable for the government.

Elsewhere, Sky News has uncovered more turmoil in Reform-run local councils. With the Metropolitan Police also widening their investigation into allegations of illegal foreign donations, how much trouble is Reform and leader Nigel Farage really in?

Plus, the Assisted Dying Bill returns to parliament tomorrow – can it clear its first major hurdle for a second time? And Anne assesses the international fallout from the UK’s action over Israel.

You can watch Cathy Newman’s full investigation into Durham's Reform-led Council here.

There’s fallout to the UK’s move to announce sanctions on illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Israel is closing the UK’s consulate in Jerusalem and considering other measures.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy look at the reaction and wonder if the new PM should also be giving attention to other matters overseas.

Elsewhere, Sam’s got a story about a big government growth initiative which, so far, hasn’t done much.

And, is the bleak economic picture making John Healey’s budget harder by the day?

Britain is about to take its toughest stance yet against Israel – but will it make a difference, or will it leave the UK isolated on the international stage?

Andy Burnham and Ed Miliband will unveil a package of sanctions targeting Israeli settlements in the West Bank, putting Britain at the forefront of the G7’s effort to pressure Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine what the move means in practice - and why the government has chosen to act now.

But with tensions rising, will the move impact the UK’s relationship with the United States and Israel?

Plus, after a turbulent conference, have Reform UK seen a bounce in the polls and could it give an early indication for the direction of travel for the Holborn and St Pancras by-election?

Can the chancellor deliver growth without breaking his own self-imposed fiscal rules?

John Healey will set out his vision for the economy this morning, but with pressure mounting on the public finances, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy ask whether he is preparing to flex the rules to make it happen.

Amidst an increasingly turbulent economic backdrop, the duo examine the warning lights beginning to flash – from the rising cost of borrowing to the instability of mortgage rates – and what it could mean for households and the government’s room for manoeuvre

Plus, as the AfD romp to victory in the German state election, Anne gives her take on where it all goes next.

A launchpad for power – or a warning of problems to come for Reform UK?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy debrief Reform UK’s biggest ever party conference and ask if the past few days have marked a turning point in Nigel Farage’s political career.

The duo examine the fallout from the Channel 4 investigation involving two of Farage’s closest aides - and whether it raises fresh questions about the party’s readiness for power.

Behind the headlines, Sam and Anne also discuss the increasingly visible battle between Robert Jenrick and Zia Yusuf for the soul of Reform.

Has Reform already peaked in its quest for power – or is Nigel Farage still on course to occupy No10?

Reform’s Robert Jenrick spoke to Sky News about the Channel 4 claims on Saturday.

As Reform UK kick off conference season in Birmingham, Nigel Farage appears to have some work to do.

The party has gone from dominating the political conversation to facing a fall in polling numbers, mounting scandals and fresh questions over Farage’s leadership.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy preview a crucial three days for Reform, with major announcements expected on migration and the economy – while a French connection could be significant.

Elsewhere, the Conservatives are ramping up the pressure on Andy Burnham over defence spending, unveiling their own plan on how they would cut welfare to fund more money for the military.

Plus, ahead of Sunday’s state elections in Germany, Anne reports from the campaign trail on the rise of the far-right AfD party and her dramatic encounter at a rally in Lützen.

Sam and Anne will return on Sunday afternoon for a special de-brief episode to reflect on the Reform party conference.

As Andy Burnham prepares for his first Prime Minister’s Questions, he faces a gathering economic storm.

With markets driving up government borrowing costs and the prospect of another interest rate rise, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine what the turmoil could mean for mortgage holders, public spending and the government plans going forward.

Could the chancellor be left with almost no room for manoeuvre ahead of October’s budget?

The duo also look ahead to the looming Holborn and St Pancras by-election and whether the Green Party leader – Zac Polanski – will consider standing?

Plus, as Emmanuel Macron arrives in Britain, why are the French taking such a keen interest in the new PM.

Parliament is back and the honeymoon is over - Andy Burnham now faces his first major test as Prime Minister.

The PM will make his Commons debut as he promises to “bring back hope” and make life more affordable. But with pressure on public finances can he deliver on his promises to cut energy bills, cap bus fares and slash business rates?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine the gap between Burnham’s ambitious promises and the tough reality facing the government.

And the duo look at how Kemi Badenoch plans to puncture the Burnham bounce with her shadow cabinet reshuffle.

After a summer of setting out his stall, Andy Burnham now faces the hard task: turning ambition into action.

In the last of the summer boxset, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy take a deep dive into five big challenges facing the government in the coming months.

From defining the 10-year plan to unresolved pressure at home and abroad, the duo give their take and analysis for a critical parliamentary term ahead.

With party conferences and a key budget on the horizon, can Burnham's government deliver on the change it has promised?

Is Britain ready for war?

In the third instalment of Sam and Anne’s Summer Boxset, they’re joined by Sky’s Defence and Security Analyst Professor Michael Clarke to ask: can Burnham’s government keep Britain safe?

From Ukraine to the Middle East, the trio examine the challenge facing Defence Secretary Wes Streeting and ask can the government afford what it wants to do on defence?

They also ask whether Burnham will approach Trump differently to Starmer and what the possible blowback from providing Ukraine with weapons to strike Russia could be.

Artificial intelligence could transform the economy, the workplace, and even the way we think - but is Britain ready for it? And is Andy Burnham?

In the second of Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy's summer box set conversations, they sit down with POLITICO UK tech editor Isobel Asher Hamilton to look at the choices facing the new prime minister this autumn.

Should Britain be building the next OpenAI, or focusing on using AI to revive manufacturing? Can the UK compete with the US and China? And where will the government land on the biggest political battles ahead, from copyright and data centres to the future of work?

Listen to the full episode of Jimmy’s Job’s of the Future podcast with Andy Burnham here.

Andy Burnham has promised to transform Britain, but can he afford it?

This autumn, Chancellor John Healey will deliver the new government's first Budget, so what might it include?

In the first episode of Sam and Anne's summer box set, they sit down with Sky News' economics editor Ed Conway to look at the spending choices facing the new prime minister.

How will the government tackle the cost of living? What do the bond markets make of Mr Burnham? And how much control does any chancellor really have when conflict in the Middle East and global events are shaping so much of Britain's economy?

Try Ed Conway's Stuff Matters podcast here

Andy Burnham has thrown the future of assisted dying into doubt. After telling Sam Coates that he does not want legislation to proceed until social care and palliative care are "fixed", supporters of the bill insist they are pressing ahead. But has the Prime Minister's intervention made its passage through Parliament far less likely?

Sam and Anne examine what Burnham's comments mean for MPs ahead of the crucial September vote.

Plus, new polling from POLITICO shows again the ‘Burnham bounce’ as his approval rating goes up in every demographic, except one – Reform voters. What will this mean in the long term?

And, before Sam and Anne take some time off over summer, what do they make of Burnham’s first two weeks?

Anne shares what she's been hearing about the new top team at the Foreign Office and Ed Miliband reveals what his grandfather would have said about his new job.

Meanwhile, can Andy Burnham really fix Britain's social care system? That's the big question as the new Prime Minister hosts cross-party talks on one of the country's biggest challenges.

There's just one problem: the invitations only went out on Tuesday, and neither Kemi Badenoch nor Ed Davey will be in the room. The Conservative leader is sending the shadow health secretary in her place, while Davey will join by Zoom. Nigel Farage and the Green Party's Zack Polanski weren't invited.

Sam and Anne dig into what, if anything, today's meeting could achieve.

No wonder the new prime minister is feeling chipper. Labour and Reform are now neck and neck in the polls for first time in more than a year. The biggest change? Among young voters.

But the ‘Burnham Bounce’ doesn’t stop there – with the PM not only having the pleasure of meeting President Zelenskyy on a visit to a naval base but also our very own Sam Coates.

Sam tells Anne McElvoy about his time with Andy Burnham and how his positivity and communication skills are a clear change from some of his predecessors.

The duo also discuss the latest policy announcement from No.10. This time, a radical shift in the education system that will allow teenagers to take technical subjects alongside academic ones. But how will this actually work in practice?

Andy Burnham came into office promising the biggest change in Britain for 40 years. But one week into his premiership, is Britain seeing transformation or just a different style of politics?

As Burnham unveils plans on social care, devolution and welfare, Sam and Anne ask just how big the policies announced by Burnham actually are. Is this just a continuation of Starmer with a new face?

They also discuss Burnham's foreign policy as he prepares to welcome Volodymyr Zelenskyy later today at a British naval base.

The latest policy announcement from Burnham’s new government is a 20% tax break for pubs, clubs and live music venues. That means that pub could save an estimated £1,100 a year.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy delve into the details and again ask, how will this be funded?

The two also discuss Burnham’s communication style and if it might need more discipline now that he’s in No.10. This is in light of the new PM’s comments on a potential review of early prison release in England and Wales.

Also, the Foreign Office has withdrawn its remaining UK staff from Iran as Donald Trump ramps up pressure on Tehran. Sam and Anne talk about what this could mean for the new Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband.

Andy Burnham wants to talk about his new bus fare cap but, and Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy point out, there isn’t much chance to talk about anything else without the Commons sitting.

They go through how the bus fare plan is funded. Chancellor John Healey says it will be “no burden to British taxpayers” but the small print raises questions about how the scheme will be funded.

At the Farnborough Air Show, there is chance to talk defence spending – and fresh questions about how to fill the funding gap from Keit Starmer’s pledges.

Plus, Sam and Anne round-up the latest ministerial movements.

The Andy Burnham era is underway, and the new prime minister is kicking off with a bang – cutting VAT on electricity bills.

He promised the country some “breathing space” on the cost of living, but with prices still rising will anyone actually feel better off? And is it properly funded?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine what the announcement shows about Burnham’s direction of travel in government, as his new cabinet gathers for the first time.

Plus, the duo unpack the biggest cabinet appointments – from John Healey as chancellor to Wes Streeting at Defence – after many Starmer loyalists were shown the door.

The bloodless coup reaches its climax today as Andy Burnham is set to become the 59th Prime Minister of the United Kingdom - but does a new face mark a new era of British politics?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy dissect the choreography of the handover, preview Burnham’s first words as PM and analyse the key cabinet appointments that will reveal the shape of his government.

Will anything really change?

The duo also consider how a small cosmetic change could signal a new way in which Andy Burnham wants to operate.

Plus, with little policy on the table so far, Sam and Anne assess the early indicators and direction of strategy and how it will impact the work of his incoming chancellor.

With just one day until Andy Burnham is crowned Labour leader, many are still scratching their heads – what will a Burnham government actually look like?

The incoming PM says he’s in no rush and will take his time over cabinet appointments – having already signalled a budget is likely in October.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy assess who could land the biggest jobs – especially at the Treasury, where Shabana Mahmood is emerging as the favourite for No11.

The duo also wonder if the announcement that British Steel is being renationalised will set Burnham up for a diplomatic row with the Chinese government early in his premiership.

Plus, as Starmer clocks up the “Keir miles” one last time on a farewell trip to Kyiv, will his bond with Zelenskyy endure after he leaves office?

It’s Keir Starmer’s final PMQs so Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy wonder if he’ll get a softer side of Kemi Badenoch in the chamber today.

But, as Starmer picks up his engraved carriage clock gift from cabinet, there’s a shift in the chat about who Andy Burnham’s neighbour at number 11 might be.

Have Team Burnham gone off the idea of Ed Miliband as Chancellor because of soft left optics? And who else is in the frame?

Keir Starmer’s farewell tour is well underway – but is he destined to spend most of it out of the UK?

With an extra day in Paris for the Bastille Day celebrations and a possible dash state side for the World Cup final, Starmer is ending his premiership on the world stage – arguably his happy place.

Back in Westminster, Prime Minister in waiting – Andy Burnham – ramps up preparations for government, telling colleagues his cabinet will reflect a “broad church.” But with days to go, cabinet ministers still don’t know who will survive the reshuffle.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy assess the challenges awaiting the Burnham government and what his first appointments and decisions will say about the direction of travel.

Elsewhere, Rachel Reeves delivers her final Mansion House speech as chancellor setting out the economic legacy she wants to leave behind.

Plus, Anne catches up with Tony Blair. What advice does the former Labour leader have for Labour’s next Prime Minister?

The political week starts with the shockwaves from the murder of Reform politician – Ann Widdecombe – which has put MPs security firmly back in the spotlight.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy have the latest on the police investigation, Nigel Farage’s response and the wider political fallout. It comes as the row over political party donations intensifies, with Reform arguing that the current safeguards aren’t strong enough.

Meanwhile, Keir Starmer enters his final week as Prime Minister, while his successor Andy Burnham faces another major test in front of the Parliamentary Labour Party.

Plus, will the Home Secretary be forced to soften her immigration reforms as she attempts to change the law to deport a recently released ringleader of a Rochdale grooming gang.

The Andy Burnham era of politics is fast approaching – and the prime minister-in-waiting has finally set out some of his priorities for government.

As Labour leadership nominations open – with his last active challenger Al Carns officially stepping aside – Burnham’s path to power is now all but certain.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy dissect his blueprint for Number 10, with a specific look at:

Plus, as preparations for the Clacton by-election ramp up, Sam considers how Nigel Farage’s gamble could backfire and asks whether coverage restrictions will cause headaches for broadcasters.

Nigel Farage has triggered a political earthquake by quitting as an MP – but is he trying to get ahead of an inevitable scandal?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack why Farage has called a by-election in Clacton and why none of the major parties are standing against him – with some describing it as a “gimmick.”

The duo also examine whether his plans will have any material impact on the Parliamentary Standards investigation into his links with Christopher Harbone and George Cottrell.

And could this extraordinary political gamble end with a stranger twist of a second by-election just weeks later?

Plus, what impact will Rupert Lowe’s Restore Party have on potential Reform supporters.

After new claims about Nigel Farage’s funding arrangements, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy discuss the bits of the new allegations which are worrying Reform.

Plus, what will an Andy Burnham government actually be like?

On the Treasury, the reports that he might try to split it in two seem have gone quiet but there seems to be an appetite to go early for this autumn’s budget.

Anne has also been speaking to Burnham advisor, Jim O’Neill, about what the Burnham foreign policy vision might be.

Could Nigel Farage’s alleged financial relationship with a convicted fraudster come back to haunt him?

The Reform leader is already under scrutiny over his £5 million gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harbone and these fresh allegations about his association with George Cottrell will intensify the pressure.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack the political, legal and ethical questions at the heart of the claims and examine whether the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards could widen his investigation.

Nigel Farage insists he "has done no wrongdoing, followed the rules" and says he is considering legal action.

Elsewhere, with a fortnight until Andy Burnham enters No10, cabinet colleagues are continuing to jostle for their positions to keep their jobs.

Plus, Sam has a potential conspiracy theory on who could end up as Andy Burnham’s chancellor.

Andy Burnham could be just days away from entering Downing Street – but who are the winners and losers from the arrival of a new Prime Minister?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine how Britain’s political landscape could be reshaped and what it means for the main opposition parties:

The duo break down the biggest opportunities, the major threats, and the new political battlegrounds as British politics enters a new era.

The full list of candidates standing for the Manchester Mayoralty can be found here.

Team Burnham have been properly triggered over the Defence Investment Plan now they’ve found out £4.7bn of it is still to be funded.

For the first time in the transition, they’re feeling furious.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy have news that the scale of the blackhole is even bigger than that.

Also - is a former Conservative mayor in the running to chair Great British Railways?

And can you have more Milibands than women in the great offices of state?

Will the long-awaited Defence Investment Plan be the Prime Minister’s final and most contentious act?

Months of delays, a multi-billion-pound funding gap and the resignation of his Defence Secretary has Keir Starmer done enough to satisfy his military chiefs?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack the political and strategic stakes and assess how NATO allies, not least Donald Trump, will make of the plans.

Elsewhere, with the PM’s departure from No10 on the horizon, is Labour already seeing a polling bounce?

And, after more than two years of disruption has Health Secretary – James Murray – finally succeeded where others have failed by bringing the resident doctors strike to an end?

Barring any last-minute surprises, Andy Burnham will become Prime Minister three weeks today.

But what is his 10-year mission for the country and how will he achieve it?

In his first major speech in Manchester, Burnham will set out his plans for the economy, welfare and devolution with a pledge to deliver “good growth in every postcode.”

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine whether his promise of the biggest transfer of power out of Whitehall in modern times amounts to a genuine political reset.

Back in London, the battle for future cabinet jobs is already underway and Anne reveals why one senior role could have David Miliband’s name on it.

Plus, with Keir Starmer’s authority in office draining can he get the long-awaited Defence Investment Plan through without any hiccups from his military chiefs?

It could have been a messy transition, but the ease with which Andy Burnham has returned to Westminster appears to be the product of many months of careful planning.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy delve into the details of how Burnham’s expected coronation has been managed – and why Louise Haigh has emerged as a key architect behind the scenes.

Meanwhile, as Donald Trump breaks his silence on Keir Starmer’s likely replacement, his verdict is rather blunt.

The duo dissect the U.S. President’s first public comments on Burnham, who he labelled as ‘extremely liberal’. What does this mean for the relationship between Washington and London?

Plus: Rachel Reeves falls in behind Burnham — but can she, and will she, survive as chancellor?

Andy Burnham appears to have taken another major step towards power, bringing in a big name from the Blair era – James Purnell – as his chief of staff.

What does it say about the Burnham operation and the government he is trying to build?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy unpack a decades-long relationship, and discuss why it’s being welcomed by Labour MPs, business and the city.

Plus, as Starmer ally Darren Jones rules himself out of a leadership challenge, is the path now clear for a Burnham coronation?

And Anne has been speaking to Reform UK’s Robert Jenrick. How do they deal with a new Labour leader, and do they have a clear narrative on migration?

In less than a month, Britain is set to get its seventh Prime Minister in under a decade.

And barring a political earthquake, it's all but certain to be Andy Burnham.

But several questions remain about what the King of the North really stands for – he now has just over three weeks to turn by-election victory into a policy platform to govern the country.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy look at the fading prospect of challengers and likely coronation. Can he really steady the ship ten years on from the Brexit referendum?

Also, with the battle for No11 well underway, the duo also look at the economic agenda and what characters could form a Burnham government as the party begins to shape ideas for the next phase.

Keir Starmer is on the brink of resigning – the only question left is when does the drama end.

After a tense weekend, the Prime Minister remains under intense pressure from his cabinet to quit, with Downing Street braced for the end of another short-lived premiership.

Meanwhile, fresh from his Makerfield by-election victory, Andy Burnham returns to Westminster. But can the King of the North pull off a smooth succession to No10?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy have inside information from both the Starmer and Burnham camps on whether Labour can manage a seamless transition or whether a brutal leadership battle lies ahead.

Plus, if there is to be a handover of power in the coming weeks, what are the pro and cons?

Andy Burnham has secured a thumping victory in the Makerfield by-election – but is it game over for Keir Starmer?

With a critical few days ahead, attention now turns to Labour’s cabinet ministers, MPs and party members. Who could make the first move to oust the Prime Minister?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy have inside information from team Burnham and assess whether a ‘bloodless coup’ is really possible or whether rivals like Wes Streeting could disrupt the plan?

Is this really Labour’s last chance to reconnect with voters and could Andy Burnham reset the party’s fortunes?

Plus: are the Conservatives showing signs of a comeback after their surprise win in Aberdeen South?

Is the SNP continuing to pay the political price for the fallout from the Peter Murrell saga?

With just 24 hours until polling day, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy preview three pivotal by-elections that could reshape British politics.

The duo assess the contests in Makerfield, Aberdeen South and Arbroath & Broughty Ferry, exploring:

Away from the campaign trail, Anne brings the latest intelligence from the UK-EU summit as political tensions continue to build in Westminster.

Plus, is the cabinet starting to forge a path for the future without Keir Starmer?

Sam and Anne will return on Friday morning for a special de-brief episode to discuss the impact of the by-election results on British politics.

The candidates standing in Makerfield by-election can be found here.

The candidates standing in Aberdeen South by-election can be found here.

The candidates standing in Arbroath and Broughty Ferry by-election can be found here.

As world leaders gather at the G7 summit – what's Keir Starmer’s top priority?

With tensions in the Middle East, a trade dispute with China, a continuing war in Ukraine and Russia’s apparent involvement in arson attacks on homes and a car linked to Keir Starmer, the PM has his hands full.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy assess whether Starmer can turn high-level diplomacy into meaningful progress.

The duo also examine the latest polling data, which suggests Andy Burnham remains the only Labour figure the public sees as a potentially stronger Prime Minister than Starmer.

Plus, does Wes Streeting have the support to mount a leadership challenge if Labour's succession debate begins?

How is Keir Starmer planning to play this week?

The week which could end with Andy Burnham back in parliament.

We know the prime minister’s got a social media ban for under-16s to announce today and a G7 summit to attend.

But Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy discuss what else is on his mind, particularly after the resignation of John Healey as defence secretary – and whether a stubborn attitude is the right way to be.

They also have word on who’s back advising Keir Starmer.

The full list of candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election can be found here.

Andy Burnham’s political opponents are finding plenty of attack lines to throw at him. So, are past comments and policy positions – from WASPI women to calls for an early election – coming back to haunt the Burnham campaign?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy also wonder who is to blame for Keir Starmer’s troubles? Well, according to a focus group of Labour members – it's all the media’s fault!

The duo unpack the mood within the party and the continued paralysis at the heart of government – affecting everything from the delayed reset of relations with the EU to the even more delayed Defence Investment Plan.

You can see all the candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election here.

Has the unrest in Belfast sparked a new political battle over Britain’s immigration system

Political leaders have condemned the violent overnight protest after a Sudanese national was charged with attempted murder of a man in the city.

With parties scrambling to seize control of the narrative, Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine how the case has reignited questions about immigration, border security and the UK's system of indefinite leave to remain.

Elsewhere, Nigel Farage holds his first major news conference since the local and national elections. Will Reform face renewed scrutiny over immigration decisions made by some of its leading figures during their time in Conservative government?

You can find the full list of candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election here.

Is Andy Burnham having trouble putting clear teal water between himself and Nigel Farage, following comments calling for a tougher stance on immigration?

Sam Coates has more from Manchester on the state of the Burnham campaign and how his movements after the Makerfield by-election remain unclear.

Meanwhile, Anne McElvoy delves deeper into the defence dilemma – with military chiefs still reportedly in the dark over the contents of the Defence Investment Plan.

As Defence Secretary John Healey prepares to argue that Britain needs to build more military equipment at home, questions remain over whether the government has the money and political will to fund its ambition.

Plus, the duo check in on the latest polling numbers – did Reform UK’s bold response to the Henry Nowak killing fail to resonate with voters?

You can see a full list of candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election here.

Can Keir Starmer wrestle back the spotlight from the Makerfield by-election?

After hosting world leaders in Downing Street and unveiling new plans for social media restrictions on children, the Prime Minister is trying to reclaim the agenda. But is the political attention still fixed on Andy Burnham in Manchester?

Sam Coates is on the ground in Manchester where the Labour bigwigs are out in force to support Burnham’s campaign. However, can the party balance the message for local voters while appealing to a national audience?

Plus, Anne McElvoy has some details on the delayed Defence Investment Plan as ministers race for a solution ahead of a key NATO summit next month.

A full list of candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election can be found here.

With two weeks until the Makerfield by-election, does Andy Burnham really have a plan in place to run the country?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy examine the policy ideas – including an ambitious expansion of social housing construction – which could form a future leadership pitch.

Back in Westminster, the duo assess the fierce political fallout from the murder of Henry Nowak after a tense PMQs. What does Nigel Farage’s intervention mean for the government and policing?

Plus, has the Prime Minister’s chief ally, Darren Jones, been dragged into the Peter Mandelson scandal – with the release of a series of mysterious texts?

You can see the full list of candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election here.

Westminster may look busy but are MPs just waiting for the potential return of Andy Burnham?

With the Makerfield by-election just over a week away Burnham insists he's focussed on winning the seat. But behind the scenes allies are already developing ideas that could underpin a future bid for No10.

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy look at who is moulding the Burnham project and why certain plans for the economy and AI are attracting growing scrutiny from Westminster and the City.

You can get the full list of candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election here.

What has Starmer loyalist Pat McFadden really been thinking when he’s been out defending the PM?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy discuss how the latest Mandelson drop makes for an awkward morning in cabinet.

And they’ve lines from Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, from a podcast recording last night. Was she hinting that a leadership coronation is better than a leadership contest?

Plus, our latest voting intention poll shows Labour’s Reform challenge isn’t going away.

You can listen to the Matt Forde Political Party podcast here.

The ghost of Peter Mandelson returns as more than 1,000 documents, emails and WhatsApp messages due to be released – but how damaging will it be for the government?

With ministers, officials and advisors braced for impact, Sam and Anne assess what could be in the files, whether the most sensitive material has been withheld and what the disclosures reveal about government communications in the age of disappearing messages.

Plus, with the Makerfield by-election fast approaching, the duo examines mounting speculation over Labour’s future leadership.

As names continue to circulate around Westminster, is the party already preparing for a post-Starmer era and will it be a slow or fast transition?

With two hugely consequential months ahead in British politics, Sam and Anne look beneath the headlines and Westminster drama to ask what really comes next.

As Donald Trump escalates tensions in the Middle East once again, the duo examine the pressure on Whitehall. Would any Prime Minister, whoever occupies Number 10, make a difference or face the same issues?

Anne reports back from the Prague Security Conference where former Downing Street chief of staff – Morgan McSweeney – makes a stark warning on AI, political disruption and the future of campaigning.

Plus, is Britain simply ungovernable?

The Starmer government has made another blunder after it emerged that sanctions are being relaxed on Russian oil processed through third countries. As a political row unfolded, Sam and Anne discuss the fallout.

Plus, Westminster is buzzing with rumours of a possible Labour coronation before the summer. If events moved quickly, what might an Andy Burnham cabinet look like? Sam and Anne discuss the possible contenders for Chancellor and whether Labour could end up with a new Foreign Secretary.

And as speculation grows over what Burnham’s agenda as Prime Minister might be, two of Labour’s most difficult dividing lines are back in focus: single-sex spaces and assisted dying.

After a fortnight of local and national elections drama - can the machinery of government get back moving again amid global instability?

With the Straits of Hormuz still shut, Sam and Anne examine a raft of announcements coming from the Treasury. Is Rachel Reeves about to open a massive argument with the NIMBYs on the right to launch judicial reviews?

Away from the levers of government, the duo look ahead to some upcoming by-elections and explain the rules around the coverage of electoral events.

All the candidates standing in the Makerfield by-election can be found here.

Andy Burnham makes his opening pitch to the voters of Makerfield but is he already in campaign mode for PM, as well as MP? Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy discuss his launch video.

Back in London, there’s a cabinet meeting this morning. Just how awkward will that be for Keir Starmer? Especially with those who were pushing him to have a plan to leave office.

And what happens over the next few weeks in government if a minister has said that don’t want the PM and the PM doesn’t have confidence in a minister?

Andy Burnham says Britain needs a “circuit breaker for politics” as he plots his return to Westminster. But with Labour sources putting his chances of success in the Makerfield by-election at less than 50:50, will his plan to stand for PM unravel before it’s begun?

Sam and Anne unpack the political chaos consuming Labour, including the growing speculation about Sir Keir Starmer’s exit timetable, and Wes Streeting reigniting the row over rejoining the EU.

Will voters see Burnham as Labour’s saviour or a man who pushes the party deeper into crisis? And does the reopening of the Brexit wars play into Reform UK’s hands?

Is the Labour leadership contest about to get messy and plunge the party into chaos?

Sam and Anne start the day expecting Wes Streeting to resign as Health Secretary to spark a contest, but an early intervention may have swung the momentum.

Angela Rayner has come out saying a HMRC investigation into her tax affairs is over, paving a way for a challenge but will she join the contest? Can Andy Burnham find a way to enter the fray?

So, as the Prime Minister vows to fight any competitor the leadership discussions are heating up.

The duo analyse the developing situation and ask whether it will be straight forward or complex showdown with the PM.

Will it be a ‘showdown’ when Keir Starmer and Wes Streeting meet today? Or does the King’s Speech calm Labour’s passions for 24 hours?

Sam Coates and McElvoy wonder if any Labour leadership has got a bit stuck after a dramatic day of resignations. Because if Streeting doesn’t have the numbers and Andy Burnham doesn't even have a Commons seat – what can anyone do?

Plus, amongst the pomp and pageantry the duo look at the substance of the King’s Speech – what bills are the ones to look out for?

Will today’s cabinet showdown push Keir Starmer to make a final decision on his future?

And will that mean Wes Streeting starts a leadership campaign?

Sam Coates and Anne McElvoy go over the dynamics of the cabinet meeting and who of the 32 is thinking what – with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood the most blunt so far about the PM needing to go.

They also go over what they’re hearing from those who want any contest to be quick – and from those who want a longer game, with Andy Burnham involved.

A speech which could define the Keir Starmer premiership – but can he reset or will it be another underwhelming relaunch?

With Labour MPs on edge, leadership contenders circling and worries over what stalking horse – Catherine West – will do next, Sam and Anne look at how quickly it all could spiral out of control if the PM fails to land his message.

But could a quick contest potentially backfire on some of the rivals hoping to storm Number 10? The duo discuss why a delay in any leadership election might end up suiting the likes of Andy Burnham.

Plus, away from the Starmer drama, is Nigel Farage about to face an investigation from the parliamentary watchdog over Christopher Harbone’s £5 million donation?

Is anyone really prepared to put their head above the parapet to challenge Keir Starmer?

After a disastrous set of election results, Labour backbencher Catherine West has launched a stalking-horse threat to force the Prime Minister out.

But, with rival camps in disarray and would-be successors staying silent, will the cabinet unite around a successor or fracture even further?

In this special debrief edition of Politics at Sam and Anne’s, the duo reveal who’s talking to who and whether Labour can stop the chaos before it spirals out of control.

Elsewhere, as the SNP and Plaid Cymru look likely to lead the devolved administrations will the state of the union be put into further question.

As early results are declared in England and counting begins across Scotland and Wales has the narrative of these elections already been set?

With Labour losing seats and council across England, Reform are already making significant gains.

The pressure on the Prime Minister is ramping up…and we don’t have a full picture yet.

Sam and Anne assess the early results and what they mean for the parties so far.

They’ll return for second special debrief episode taking in all the results on Sunday afternoon.

On the eve of a hugely significant set of local and national elections – who has the momentum and who is staring into an electoral abyss?

Sam and Anne pore over the final voting intention polls before the elections – covering England, Scotland and Wales. Have the latest headlines for Reform and the Greens done any damage?

Meanwhile, as part of a series of leader interviews on Sky News, Sam has been speaking to the Conservatives’ Kemi Badenoch. How will she be judged at this election and what does success look like for her party?

Plus, Anne has some details from the Keir Starmer camp on how they plan to deal with aftermath of the coming days.

You can find all the candidates standing in the elections across England, Scotland and Wales here.

Sam and Anne will return for two special debrief episodes on Friday and Sunday as the votes come in across the country.

With days until the local and national elections – amid some grim polling projections – are Labour facing a double-edged threat from both the left and right of British politics?

As instability in the Middle East intensifies, Keir Starmer is preparing to host a summit to tackle antisemitism, but will Labour’s punchy attack on the Greens – including claims of antisemitic remarks made by their candidates – cut through with the voters?

Away from the campaigning Sam and Anne assess the state of potential leadership challengers. Are they ready and can they realistically force the Prime Minister’s hand?

Plus, have Rachel Reeves’ warnings to the U.S. that the war with Iran would be “folly’ come back to haunt her?

With one week until voters head to the polls in Scotland, Wales and England – are we about to see a seismic shift in British politics?

In a special episode, Sam and Anne are joined by YouGov pollster Patrick English to break down the data and assess what it could all mean for the parties.

As the vote splits across the spectrum, who is set to benefit – and is British politics entering a new multi-party era?

A reminder that all the candidates standing in these elections can be found here.

Has King Charles’s warmth and humour helped save the special relationship?

It may be a diplomatic win for Keir Starmer in Washington, helping to steady UK-U.S. relations – but have private comments by his U.S. ambassador made life more difficult back in London?

Yesterday, the Prime Minister survived a vote demanding he appear before the privileges committee, but after another blockbuster Foreign Affairs Committee session, questions remain over his judgement to appoint Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States.

Elsewhere, could Angela Rayner make a comeback post local elections and will there be a wider cabinet reshuffle?

Plus, Sam flags some under-the-radar issues that could be highly consequential in the long run.

What might Sir Philip Barton and Morgan McSweeney reveal about the Mandelson vetting scandal?

Today, the former foreign office mandarin and Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff give evidence to MPs on the Foreign Affairs Select Committee.

That’s before the Commons vote on whether there should be an inquiry on if the Prime Minister misled Parliament.

As well as select committees and votes, there are still 13 active bills to deal with before Parliament prorogues tomorrow.

Sam’s in London for a pivotal day in the Starmer leadership and Anne’s in Washington for the King’s state visit.

Can King Charles save the UK-U.S. special relationship?

As the King touches down in Washington for a state visit, Anne – who was at the White House correspondent’s dinner – describes the moment a security incident plunged the night into chaos.

With a critical three days ahead Sam and Anne discuss the high stakes diplomacy facing Britain and whether the strained relationship could be reset.

Back in Westminster, with Parliament days from prorogation, Sam runs through the key government bills hanging in the balance and previews a major day at the Foreign Affairs Committee, as the Peter Mandelson scandal rumbles on.

Plus, with 10 days until the local and national elections what options does Keir Starmer have on the table post polling day?

Will the Prime Minister ever escape the ghost of Peter Mandelson and his decision to appoint the ‘Prince of Darkness’ as the UK’s ambassador to Washington?

With fresh committee hearings looming – including an appearance from Cabinet Office permanent secretary Cat Little – and senior ministers appearing uncomfortable defending No10 on the airwaves, Sam and Anne ask if the row is anywhere near its peak.

The duo also examine the growing tension between Downing Street and the civil service and whether pulling top mandarins into political warfare risks lasting damage to the system.

Over on Planet Tory, Anne has an update on the rumoured reshuffle of Kemi Badenoch’s shadow cabinet.

Plus, why isn’t the government more worried about a shortage of jet fuel due to the Iran war?

Has the Prime Minister and No10 weathered the storm on the Peter Mandelson vetting scandal?

With the dust only beginning to settle, Sam and Anne dissect the mixed, uncomfortable and carefully worded reactions from senior figures across the Labour party after Olly Robbins’ combative session in parliament.

Keir Starmer braces for another grilling from MPs at Prime Minister Questions on the Mandelson saga but has he contained the damage, or has he been left out in the cold to face it alone?

Away from Starmer drama, the duo look at the latest polling in Wales where Reform seem to be making ground on Plaid Cymru.

The news agenda may be dominated by Olly Robbins’ highly-anticipated evidence session to MPs on the Mandelson scandal – but is an even more significant story unfolding elsewhere?

Cabinet ministers and other senior Labour figures (but not the Prime Minister) will gather at a key conference – setting out competing visions on growth, energy security and economic policy. Are they positioning themselves for a future without Keir Starmer?

Sam and Anne assess what Labour grandees can do to revive the party’s public standing and define what happens next.

Plus, the duo have their weekly check-in on the state of the polls, and wonder whether the Mandelson saga has had an impact.

The Prime Minister faces another defining day as he confronts MPs over one question - when did he and No10 learn that Peter Mandelson had failed his security vetting?

Keir Starmer has blamed top foreign office diplomat - Sir Olly Robbins - for not telling him, but allies of the mandarin are fighting back ahead of his expected appearance before the Foreign Affairs Select Committee tomorrow.

Sam and Anne unpack the competing claims, the ongoing fallout and whether this has become a defining crisis for the PM - just a fortnight before the local and national elections.

And, away from the fighting in Westminster, are Andy Burnham and Angela Rayner already planning for a future without Keir Starmer?

Plus, is a Kemi Badenoch shadow cabinet reshuffle on the cards?

With three weeks to polling day, postal voting is underway in local and devolved elections across the UK - but will the process stay clean and how much could deepfakes distort the campaign?

In Scotland, an almighty row has erupted between Labour and Reform over an alleged behind-the-scenes alliance to remove the SNP, with both parties branding each other liars.

Down in Wales, questions are being raised over whether a party could win the most votes yet fail to form the next administration under the new voting system.

Sam hears from the CEO of the Electoral Commission about the threat of deepfakes and a new pilot scheme to detect them.

Away from the campaign trail, Anne has been speaking to the new German ambassador to the UK, who has struck up an unlikely friendship with a potential challenger to Keir Starmer.

Plus, details of plans being drawn up for a “worst-case scenario” over food shortages if the Strait of Hormuz remains shut.

You can find all the candidates standing in the local and national elections across the country here.

Donald Trump unloads another scathing attack on Keir Starmer – throwing out threats and casting doubt on the special relationship once again – raising fresh question about what could happen next.

All very awkward as the Chancellor touches down in Washington for a key IMF meeting and a state visit from King Charles looms on the horizon.

Away from Trump-Starmer division – Sam and Anne unpack the reaction to yesterday’s exclusive revelation on the podcast that defence chiefs are trying to find more cuts to the defence budget. Is Rachel Reeves under more pressure to find cash for them?

Plus, Sam has a scoop on the energy price cap and a scheme which could help businesses.

If you want more analysis on that Donald Trump phone call with Mark Stone – listen to the latest episode of Trump 100 podcast here.

The man who wrote Keir Starmer’s defence review says the Government is putting the UK ‘in peril’ at a time of war.

With more pressure to overhaul the defence budget, Sam reveals that talks going on this week to find billions of pounds worth of savings from this year’s MOD budget.

Also – has Ed Miliband shifted his stance on new North Sea oil and gas drilling?

Plus, in our weekly polls check-in: are the Greens shifting the dial of momentum in their favour?

What is the Prime Minister’s top priority as he faces down a critical month? He has a busy basket of problems on the domestic and foreign front – all set on the backdrop of a crucial set of elections.

In the Middle East, with no peace deal between the U.S. and Iran and the Strait of Hormuz still blocked, a leading think tank issues some stark warnings about the impact on British households.

In Parliament, as the session draws to a close, MPs face the mammoth task of sifting through 17 pieces of legislation – ranging from the Hillsborough Law to GB Rail – to decide whether they progress or fall.

Plus, what does the fall of Hungary's Victor Orban mean for Europe, Russia and Ukraine?

With one month to go until the local elections in England, Wales and Scotland - is the electoral map about to be redrawn?

In his first major test since the general election, Sir Keir Starmer faces a major health check and verdict on his government and leadership. Could the results reshape his premiership?

In this special episode, Sam and Anne are joined by elections analyst Professor Rob Ford to discuss the key battlegrounds across the country.

Sam and Anne return for daily episodes from Monday 13 April.

MPs may be on recess - but as the Iran war enters its fifth week should Whitehall ramp up contingency planning for its impact at home?

With the Strait of Hormuz still shut and reports of a potential U.S. ground invasion the Prime Minister will host a roundtable with key stakeholders from industry to discuss the ongoing impacts.

Elsewhere, Labour launch its local elections campaign, and the duo look at the polls from a national perspective, assessing the state of the parties with a key month ahead to May 7th.

Next Monday Sam and Anne return with a lookahead to the local elections with academic and pollster – Professor Rob Ford. Normal service will resume from Monday 13th April.

The Iran conflict may be dominating the headlines, but it’s the unintended consequences back home that are bothering the Prime Minister.

With Tehran rejecting Donald Trump’s 15-point peace plan, will the government be forced to step up contingency planning to cover issues as diverse as fertiliser, fuel costs and even helium production?

Sir Keir Starmer is in Finland for a military summit – so Sam and Anne assess the urgent priorities at home and abroad.

But back in Westminster, the Morgan McSweeney phone theft story simply won’t go away. Are there yet more questions for No.10 to answer?

How does the government plan for making sure the country has enough fuel without accidentally triggering a change in public behaviour which causes shortages?

Sam and Anne discuss that tightrope this morning. Ministers will be frustrated by comments from the CEO of Shell about ‘ripple effects’ from the Iran war.

The UK says supplies are solid, but it’ll be looking at different approaches being taken elsewhere in Europe.

It’s the last PMQs before recess and what’s the story with Morgan McSweeney’s phone theft?

Does Donald Trump always chicken out or is Keir Starmer in the dark about what is going to happen next in the Middle East?

The U.S. President has paused military action in Iran for five days, but pressure remains on the government to support those struggling with energy bills.

Sam and Anne unpack a turbulent 24 hours for the Prime Minister - examining how far the Chancellor can go to help those in need and whether she can afford it.

Has Rachel Reeves learnt the lessons from Liz Truss – can she steady the markets and are there tricky decision coming down the line?

Elsewhere, we have our weekly check-in on the polls – has the Starmer drama died down?

Plus, Sam has a deep dive investigation in local councils wasting money on “unreasonable” planning decisions.

As oil prices climb again – with neither the U.S. nor Iran backing down over the re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz – what can the Prime Minister do to ease the economic strain?

Later today Keir Starmer will convene an emergency COBR meeting to assess the cost-of-living impacts of the Iran war and consider if the government can further support households with a potential energy crisis looming.

Sam and Anne examine the economic challenges facing the PM and the Chancellor, what role Britain is really playing in the conflict and how long could it go on for.

Elsewhere, does the Home Secretary have multiple headaches over the Hillsborough law and a deal with the French to curb migrant crossings over the English Channel.

After a targeted attack on Shabana Mahmood’s immigration reforms, has Angela Rayner forced another climbdown from the Starmer premiership?

Rayner allies are eyeing her return to frontline politics before the May elections – will Rachel Reeves be her next target? And does the Prime Minister really need his former deputy’s support?

Sam and Anne consider all the factors and assess how credible a Rayner vision for Britain would be.

Elsewhere, the UK launches a 50% tariff on all steel goods being imported into the country, but what is the move trying to achieve?

Plus, what does the public really think of the policing system – and is the minister responsible immune from the issues?

With a full-on pointed and personal attack at the Prime Minister – is Angela Rayner beginning to position herself for something bigger?

The former deputy prime minister ramped up the rhetoric – claiming that the future of the Labour party was at stake if mistakes continued and that certain reforms were “un-British.”

Sam and Anne pore over her explosive comments, assessing what an ‘Ange-Britain’ could look like, where she differs from the current approach being taken by Keir Starmer and what the overall strategy is.

Away from Westminster, up in Holyrood MSPs vote against assisted dying - but will the decision have an impact on the legislation going through Westminster?

Global insecurity and transatlantic tensions dominate the agenda for Keir Starmer - but is the UK about to edge closer to the EU?

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will deliver a speech on plans to deepen the ties with the European Union, as Donald Trump ramps up the rhetoric on Britain’s limited involvement in the Iran war.

But - with oil and gas supplies under pressure - how long can the Prime Minister hold back from supporting the U.S. President before needing Washington’s help to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to stabilise global supply chains?

Back in London, President Zelenskyy makes a visit to Downing Street - a timely reminder that the war in Ukraine against Russia rumbles on.

Plus, is Angela Rayner slowly making a return to front line politics and how does it fit in with Labour's promises of reform when they came in?

The U.S. President is pilling the pressure on the UK to back his war in Iran – but how long can Keir Starmer hold his nerve?

Barrels of oil remain above $100, and the Straits of Hormuz remain shut - all as Donald Trump casts doubt on the future of NATO for nations not co-operating with him.

Ahead of a key PM speech later today, Sam and Anne examine the diplomatic fallout and assess how Starmer will navigate an increasingly fraught relationship with Mr Trump.

Plus, what does all this mean for people back home with a potential energy bill price hike – does the government have a package of measures ready to help?

The release of the Mandelson files, war in the Middle East and a fresh cost-of-living crisis are all causing turmoil for the Prime Minister – but strangely, are they also doing him a favour?

The fallout from the first details of Peter Mandelson’s departure from Washington have already exposed the cracks between Keir Starmer and some advisors. With thousands more emails, messages and WhatsApps to come, this could be just the beginning.

But Sam and Anne assess how a lack of obvious successors might actually shore up the PM’s position.

Meanwhile, as the Iran war continues to escalate in the Middle East – pushing oil prices ever higher – Sam hears from government sources that contingency planning is already underway to soften the blow if energy bills surge.

The first wave of files relating to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador get released today.

Not only will we see emails, WhatsApps and minutes about the due diligence, any comments about the US president himself will also be there for us all to see.

Sam and Anne discuss the potential consequences.

Peter Mandelson denies any wrongdoing, including misconduct in public office. He has apologised to Jeffrey Epstein’s victims for remaining friends with him.

Plus, we’ve more on the tensions between defence chiefs and Downing Street.

The government, like the rest of us, is trying to work out where it stands this morning after Donald Trump swung from hitting Iran ‘twenty times harder’ to ending the war ‘very soon’.

If Trump’s got things to boiling point and now looking for an offramp – how will that make the UK response look?

Sam and Anne pick up on what they’re hearing about relations between the PM and his defence chiefs.

Back in Parliament, the Courts and Tribunal Bill returns to the Commons – we go over the streamlined plans for juries – and where any rebellion could come.

Plus, Kwasi Kwarteng, Nigel Farage and bitcoin.

As Iran names its new supreme leader oil prices skyrocket, sending shockwaves across the global economy – but how will the UK government deal with the issue?

President Trump claims the surge is a “small price to pay” for peace - but as G7 finance leaders hold an emergency meeting later today can they find ways to limit the damage?

Sam and Anne discuss the steps Keir Starmer can take to reassure the public, if the conflict could hit people’s pockets and whether there is potential of world economies collapsing under the pressure.

The pair also consider the increasingly turbulent “special relationship's”: is it just a one-way street?

Plus, with the courts bill returning to the House of Commons tomorrow will we get a picture of how big a potential rebellion could be?

As the war in the Middle East enters its sixth day, questions remain over the Prime Minister’s stance – but did a cabinet revolt shape the UK’s response?

Reports suggest Keir Starmer was in favour of granting the US access to UK military bases sooner, but was overruled by an alliance of Yvette Cooper, Ed Miliband, Rachel Reeves and Lord Hermer.

Sam and Anne unpack the power dynamics at the top of government and the pressure the PM faces from international allies – some of whom are wondering which side Britain is on.

Away from the conflict, Home Secretary Shabanna Mahmood unveils tougher immigration plans in a major speech - but will the rhetoric cross the line?

Plus, the duo have insider gossip from Morgan McSweeney’s leaving do.

“This is not Winston Churchill we are dealing with here” - the words of Donald Trump as he attacks Keir Starmer over the UK’s approach to the Iran war - but does this mark a new low for the transatlantic relationship?

As the conflict in the Middle East rages on, the UK deploy military hardware to Cyprus to protect its assets, is this a further sign the UK is being dragged into the war?

Sam and Anne assess if events have overshadowed the Spring Forecast, examine where the UK stands in its special relationship with the United States and look at whether Whitehall is preparing for months of war.

Remember, you can get a full analysis of the Rachel Reeves’ Spring Forecast in Politics at Sam and Anne’s The Debrief here

The Chancellor has been on her feet in the Commons – the backdrop?

The momentous conflict unfolding in the Middle East - so was it a “non-event” that dated almost immediately?

Or did the Spring forecast give us clues to the direction of the government?

Rachel Reeves reiterated that her economic plan was “the right plan” but have the government made certain assumptions and do the OBR agree with them?

Sam at the Resolution Foundation thinktank and Anne in Berlin debrief the contents of Spring Forecast and pour over all key economic indicators - with a focus on areas which might be trouble down the tracks.

Its Spring Forecast day but as the war continues across the Middle East – is the special relationship now under threat?

Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, and U.S. President, Donald Trump, trade blows on the legality of the military action but is Britain military and economically ready for what’s to come?

Sam and Anne look at all options on the table and assess whether this could impact the Spring Forecast, and more importantly, people’s pockets.

Elsewhere, we have an exclusive poll which puts the Greens on a stronger footing with the public.

Plus, should MPs be paid close to £100,000 a year?

After a weekend of destabilisation and tension across the Middle East, the UK allows the U.S. to use its military bases for attacks in Iran – but what challenges do the government face?

The U.S. President says he will continue bombings on Iran until “all objectives are met” posing problems for Keir Starmer with thousands of Brits stuck in the region and hundreds of oil tankers dropping anchor around the Strait of Hormuz.

Sam and Anne examine the domestic and political reaction; the tight rope the Prime Minister is walking to maintain a working relationship with Donald Trump and how costly this could be on people’s day-to-day lives.

Tomorrow, Sam and Anne will bring you a bonus de-brief episode on the Spring Forecast, which will be in your feed's late afternoon.

The plumber come politician – Hannah Spencer – claims a seismic and historic win for the Greens at the Gorton and Denton by-election but, where does this leave the Keir Starmer project?

Sam and Anne examine what this means for the Prime Minister, who will be left soul searching after a massive collapse in their vote within the Manchester suburb.

The duo also consider:

Is the Labour vote bleeding from both the left and the right flanks of the party? Is this truly the end of two-party politics in Britain? What are the consequences of this result and has the blame game began?

After months of heated and passionate debate across the country and in the Houses of Parliament, is the assisted dying bill about to fall?

Sam exclusively reveals that the government will not give additional time for the bill in the Lords – leaving little time to get it through before the end of the parliamentary session.

Ahead of the spring forecast, the duo pore over policy areas pushing for further cash - especially student loans and defence - despite Rachel Reeves insisting this isn’t a moment for increased spending.

Plus, does the United States have the final say on whether the UK should sell off the Chagos Islands?

With under 24 hours to go until the polls open in Gorton and Denton, is this by-election the biggest test facing Sir Keir Starmer’s government?

Sam has been in the Manchester suburb - hearing from the political big hitters and gathering reaction from voters across the constituency – finding out their priorities and whether Andy Burnham could have made a difference.

Back in Westminster, are the Metropolitan Police in a sticky situation over the arrest of Peter Mandelson and claims that he was a “flight risk?”

A full list of candidates standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election can be found here: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/directory_record/538138/statement_of_persons_nominated_and_notice_of_poll_for_the_february_2026_gorton_and_denton_by_election?outputType=chromeless

Peter Mandelson is arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a seismic moment in British politics - but will the pain of Epstein files continue to haunt Keir Starmer’s government over the coming days, weeks and months?

With an active police investigation and limited scope of what he can reveal, the Prime Minister will face tough questions over his decision to appoint Mr Mandelson as the UK’s top man in Washington.

Sam and Anne consider:

Will the arrest impact the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election? Will the Liberal Democrats use the humble address to force the government to release documents on the appointment of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as a trade envoy?

Away from the Mandelson affair, on the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, allies from the coalition of the willing meet with President Zelenskyy.

Plus, has more money been found to help tackle the courts backlog and will it make a difference?