What’s feeding the rise of Reform? On the road in Birmingham

Loading player...
John Harris is at the Reform UK conference, asking how this once insurgent party came to dominate the political mainstream. And he speaks to people in Birmingham to find out what the rise of Nigel Farage’s party tells us about the state of the country Send your questions and thoughts to politicsweeklyuk@theguardian.com. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
7 Sep 2025 English United Kingdom News

Other recent episodes

Can Andy Burnham’s ‘No 10 North’ change anything?

Andy Burnham, the prime minister-in-waiting, has made his first major speech since becoming the MP for Makerfield. Speaking in Manchester, he said the Westminster system was ‘broken’ and that a ‘more of the same’ attitude would not work. He promised a ‘No 10 North’ as part of his proposals for…
29 Jun 24 min

Brexit: An Oral History

This week marked 10 years since the UK chose to leave the EU. In a series of interviews with key players from both sides, Kiran Stacey looks back on the Brexit vote that changed the country forever. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
26 Jun 46 min

Andy Burnham: who’s really got his ear?

As Andy Burnham looks set to go unchallenged in his leadership bid, Labour MPs are now jostling for a position in his cabinet. Who will have his ear, and what does that tell us about his leadership?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
25 Jun 30 min

Keir Starmer resigns: what now?

An emotional Keir Starmer announced his resignation as prime minister and Labour leader on Monday morning, less than two years after he won a huge majority at the general election. The question now is who will replace him: will Andy Burnham sweep into No 10 uncontested? And can he make…
22 Jun 34 min

Andy Burnham: our next Prime Minister?

Andy Burnham will return to Westminster as an MP, and potential challenger to Keir Starmer, after decisively beating Reform UK to win the Makerfield byelection. Kiran Stacey and Jessica Elgot chat through what happens next. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod
19 Jun 31 min