Chopper's Politics

Chopper's Politics

The Telegraph

The Telegraph's weekly politics podcast, presented by Christopher "Chopper" Hope. The podcast has interviews with top politicians and commentators and analysis from the Telegraph’s Westminster team. Chopper's Politics is a must listen for those who want to understand British politics, delving into various aspects of policy, key players, and the internal movements of Westminster’s political parties. With a focus on the Conservative Party (Tories), the podcast examines the party’s policies, strategies, and ideologies. The podcast offers insights into prominent figures within the party, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson.With a keen eye on the ever-ev...

The Lockdown Files: Episode 6, The Forgotten Victims

The Lockdown Files: Episode 6, The Forgotten Victims

In January 2021, the first Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccines made their way into people’s arms. By mid-march, 11 million people had received the jab.After successive lockdowns, it felt like a way out. But now, more than two years on, storm clouds are gathering.Today, 80 of them are preparing to sue Astrazeneca. They say that until now, no one has wanted to hear their stories. So we’re telling them.Find out more: ‘We were told the vaccine was safe - but what happened has been life-changing’Ar

Nov 9, 2023 • 41:50

The Lockdown Files: Episode 5, The Fallout

The Lockdown Files: Episode 5, The Fallout

In the face of major disasters, it is perhaps inevitable that there will be missteps. And when the dust settles, people are asked to account for their actions.How is history going to judge the government’s response to COVID?In this last episode of the Lockdown Files podcast, the investigations team at the Telegraph investigates potential mistakes at the heart of the pandemic response.Shutting schools, a lack of oversight with financial support and questions over whether lockdown would ever happe

Aug 18, 2023 • 38:17

The Lockdown Files: Episode 4, Project Fear

The Lockdown Files: Episode 4, Project Fear

Is it ever ok to scare the public?In this episode, the reporters dig into leaked messages which show a discussion between Matt Hancock and one of his team. They say “We frighten the pants off everyone with the new strain” and “When do we deploy the new variant”. The exchanges speak to a so-called “Project Fear”, which prompts the team to ask government ministers about whether decisions made were the right ones… We also speak to the adviser behind some of the government's messaging… And to a mum

Aug 11, 2023 • 34:33

The Lockdown Files: Episode 3, The Case on Care Home

The Lockdown Files: Episode 3, The Case on Care Home

Tens of thousands of care home residents died during the pandemic. Many people see it as the government’s biggest failure. Matt Hancock’s Whatsapp messages lifted the lid on conversations behind key decisions. But it wasn’t just the messages which were revealing… The team behind the Lockdown Files unearths new documents suggesting an unnerving offer made to care homes in Durham and Birmingham. Read more about the Lockdown Files here: www.telegraph.co.uk/news/lockdown-files |For 30 days’ free acc

Aug 4, 2023 • 31:26

The Lockdown Files: Episode 2, The Road to Lockdown

The Lockdown Files: Episode 2, The Road to Lockdown

The Investigations team looks back on the early days of the pandemic. How prepared was the government? Was lockdown inevitable? But they hit a stumbling block - they may have 100,000 messages, but there’s a gap in March. So the team decide that if they can’t read where those key decisions were made, they’d do the next best thing: speak to people who were in the room where it happenedRead more about the Lockdown Files here: www.telegraph.co.uk/news/lockdown-files |For 30 days’ free access to The

Jul 28, 2023 • 24:44

The Lockdown Files: Episode 1, The Leak

The Lockdown Files: Episode 1, The Leak

In January 2023, reporters at the Telegraph are called into a meeting. The newspaper has got something big.Matt Hancock’s Whatsapps from when he was the Health Secretary, during the pandemic: 100,000 messages. The reporters start digging.Rate and Review the Lockdown Files podcast here: https://podfollow.com/the-lockdown-files |Read more about the Lockdown Files here: www.telegraph.co.uk/news/lockdown-files |For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: www.telegraph.co.uk/lockdownfilespodcast |If y

Jul 21, 2023 • 19:43

BONUS: Richard Sharp's Exclusive Exit Interview from the BBC

BONUS: Richard Sharp's Exclusive Exit Interview from the BBC

In this bonus episode of Chopper's politics, former BBC chairman Richard Sharp joins Chris for his 'exit interview' to discuss the controversial events surrounding his departure.Over a round of black velvets they discuss his opinions on former PM Boris Johnson, why he's in favour of a charter renewal and his advice for his successor.For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/chopper |

Jul 8, 2023 • 41:29

Cheerio... with Gove, Rees Mogg, Forde and Cox

Cheerio... with Gove, Rees Mogg, Forde and Cox

Over 360 episodes, 8.2 million listens and one Red Lion Pub, welcome to the last edition of Choppers Politics Podcast.Joining the Telegraph's legendary political journalist Chris Hope in Westminster's finest drinking hole is star of Spitting Image: Idiots Assemble, comedian Matt Forde, discussing comedy in a woke world as well as bringing some of his finest political impressions.Two big beasts of the Tory party also join Chris, including Jacob Rees Mogg airing his concerns about the privileges c

Jul 7, 2023 • 51:05

School children identifying as Lions & Tigers & Bears, oh my!

School children identifying as Lions & Tigers & Bears, oh my!

It’s been a week when the economic picture has worsened for millions of us and to discuss the government wrestling with the problem - and how Liz Truss was right - is Ranil Jayawardena, a former Tory Cabinet minister in Truss’s administration.As Labour surge ahead in the polls, MP Rosie Duffield - sidelined by the leaders of her own party - joins Chris to discuss whether the party is ready for governing the country.Plus, schools have been at the forefront of recent news with reports of

Jun 30, 2023 • 42:52

Banks, Boris and the "blob"

Banks, Boris and the "blob"

Treasury minister Andrew Griffith MP hot-foots it across the road to the Red Lion pub to tell Christopher Hope that he thinks banks should help families who are seeing their mortgage costs spiral, and face the awkward question of how he'd deal with a business that had three CEOs in the space of a year (Conservative Party, take note).Also on the podcast, Joy Morrissey MP, one of only seven Conservative MPs who voted against the privileges committee report into Boris Johnson, and a whip no less. S

Jun 22, 2023 • 43:48

Boris blames kangaroo court: has Johnson gone "full Trump"?

Boris blames kangaroo court: has Johnson gone "full Trump"?

On the day the former PM faces having his parliamentary pass removed after being found to have “deliberately” misled MPs over partygate, Christopher Hope is joined in the Red Lion by Boris Johnson's long-time pal, legendary pollster Frank Luntz. Frank thinks comparisons to Trump are unfair on Johnson, but bemoans the fact his friend did not take the seriousness of his post more seriously.Also on the podcast, the so-called grandfather of Brexit, Bill Cash MP, on why he's retiring and whether gove

Jun 15, 2023 • 44:22

"Disinformation" with David Davis

"Disinformation" with David Davis

Finally the Covid inquiry starts next week - and the Government is in a right old tangle over what to do about it. Veteran Conservative MP and former Cabinet Minister David Davis joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion to voice his concerns about the shadowy Government body called the Counter Disinformation Unit, which was used to spy on lockdown critics and why he'd only give the current government a 6/10.Also on the podcast, we explore what would Labour do about the Covid Whatsapp row, if it's

Jun 9, 2023 • 55:19

Back to work, back to Boris, and the Taxing Tories

Back to work, back to Boris, and the Taxing Tories

With the advent of AI and concerns over 8 million 'economically inactive' people in Britain, we thought it was high time we asked Mel Stride MP, Work and Pensions Secretary, back to the Red Lion pub for a chinwag.Hot off his heels and hot off the press was Onward think-tank Director Sebastian Payne brandishing the findings from their report "Missing Millennials", which sets out the challenge facing the Tories with younger voters.And in a week where Whatsapps from Boris Johnson are dominating the

Jun 2, 2023 • 46:50

Borders, bonking and Liam Byrne

Borders, bonking and Liam Byrne

Immigration. The issue which drove so many people to vote to leave the EU before the 2016 EU referendum is back in the news and rising as an issue. Alp Mehmet, Chairman of Migration Watch, popped by the Red Lion pub to discuss the newest immigration figures of 606,000 net. It’s also been a big week for Labour's plans for the economy with Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves jetting off (pun intended) to America to deliver her "business model for Britain" speech. One senior Labour MP who is doing some

May 26, 2023 • 45:48

Hope, charity and "lying bastards"

Hope, charity and "lying bastards"

Olympian James Cracknell joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion to explain why he hopes become a Tory MP, appropriately in Henley on Thames, and how he would react if a certain blonde, former PM tapped him on the shoulder and asked him to step aside...Also on the podcast, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer MP, fresh from a busy few weeks with the Coronation and then Eurovision, encourages Britain to embrace its cultural soft power, and urges charities to stay out of politics.Plus former producer to A

May 19, 2023 • 49:29

"We are slipping into authoritarianism"

"We are slipping into authoritarianism"

Sir Charles Walker MP joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion this week to express his fears that we are descending into authoritarianism, after arrests of protestors this weekend at the Coronation. Plus as the MP for Broxbourne is not seeking re-election, he gets a few more things off his chest, such as how MPs these days are just "superannuated citizens advice bureaus". Ouch.Also on the podcast, Miriam Cates MP debates the nature of conservatism and reveals why she cried when the Government ann

May 11, 2023 • 47:08

Local Elections: Tories take a battering but can Labour claim victory?

Local Elections: Tories take a battering but can Labour claim victory?

Sir Keir Starmer claims that Labour is on course to win a majority at the next general election, after the party made gains and the Tories suffered heavy losses at local elections across England.But is claiming a Conservative crumbling to be a Labour win correct? Electoral Calculus's Martin Baxter and the Sunday Telegraph's Tony Diver join Christopher Hope at Telegraph Towers to discuss.Plus former digital minister Matt Warman MP discuss the other hot topic of the moment - no, not the Coron

May 5, 2023 • 28:54

Bring back campaigner Boris says Greg Hands

Bring back campaigner Boris says Greg Hands

Christopher Hope gets a field trip this week, leaving the Red Lion behind for Lewes in Sussex. Chopper is joined by Conservative Party Chairman, Greg Hands and mental health minister and local MP Maria Caulfield, as they went out knocking on doors ahead of next week's local elections. Hands is quick to say that Sunak plays well on the doorsteps, but do the voters we hear from agree? And which former leader would he like to see being more vocal (clue is in the title, listeners). Plus the Conserva

Apr 28, 2023 • 38:34

Could the Conservatives claw back into the election race?

Could the Conservatives claw back into the election race?

Tory grandee Sir Robert Syms makes a startling prediction to Christopher Hope in the Red Lion this week - he thinks his party can win the next election. The MP for Poole Symes thinks that people's political views are not as fixed as they used to be, and once the ship has steadied, Sunak can give the party a vision to inspire voters. Also on the podcast, Baroness Anne Jenkin explains the impact that smartphones are having on young people's perceptions of sex: "they have porn in their pockets and

Apr 20, 2023 • 38:39

A deep dive into Britain's newest trade deal - the CPTPP

A deep dive into Britain's newest trade deal - the CPTPP

Chopper is off frolicking in the sun so this week Dia Chakravarty is in the podcast hotseat for an in-depth look at a subject that saw Conservative MPs starting their Easter holidays with a spring in their step - the CPTPP, or the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Not exactly catchy, is it?Amanda Tickel, Head of Tax and Trade Policy at Deloitte UK, and Liam Halligan, Economist and Telegraph columnist break down what the CPTPP is and how it differs from the EU

Apr 13, 2023 • 48:31

What can the current crop of Conservatives learn from Lawson?

What can the current crop of Conservatives learn from Lawson?

It’s been a week of reflection, and so we brought quiet contemplation to the Red Lion pub this week. With the death of Nigel Lawson earlier this week reminding Tories of a time when the Government was bold about tax cuts, Sir John Redwood MP joins Christopher Hope to talk about what the current crop of Conservatives can learn from the late former Chancellor. And as we mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday agreement, veteran Telegraph journalist Philip Johnston reflects on that se

Apr 6, 2023 • 44:17

Peter Mandelson: ‘I’ve yet to meet a Tory who says they are going to win’

Peter Mandelson: ‘I’ve yet to meet a Tory who says they are going to win’

It's a bumper episode for Chopper's Politics listeners this week, don't say we don't treat you.Lord Mandelson joins Christopher Hope on the week that former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn was barred from standing as Labour candidate. He muses on whether Sir Keir Starmer might actually want Corbyn to run against him ("I couldn't possibly say..."), reveals how impressed he is by the upcoming crop of Labour candidates, "absolutely as good, if not better, than those we selected in the 1990s before the

Mar 31, 2023 • 1:00:54

Can Labour capitalise on SNP chaos post-Sturgeon?

Can Labour capitalise on SNP chaos post-Sturgeon?

Note: this episode was recorded before Humza Yousaf was announced as the new leader of the SNP on Monday 27th March 2023. Ahead of the SNP leadership contest result, Christopher Hope brings you a Scotland special edition of Chopper's Politics. The Telegraph's Scottish Political Editor, Simon Johnson, and columnist and staunch unionist Alan Cochrane, head to the studio to talk about the role of the Greens in the future of Scotland and whether the unionist parties, whisper

Mar 26, 2023 • 33:48

A brief Brexit rebellion and a bleak week for Boris

A brief Brexit rebellion and a bleak week for Boris

This week two of the Conservative Party's obsessions reared their head yet again: Boris Johnson and Brexit. You may think you've everything there is to know about either subject but no, there's more, so Christopher Hope has invited a cavalcade of distinguished guests to the Red Lion pub to chew the fat on everyone's pet subjects.Conservative Home Editor Paul Goodman gives his assessment of whether we could see a Boris by-election, and why he believes the former PM is doomed to channel Bilbo Bagg

Mar 24, 2023 • 40:11

The winners and losers of Jeremy Hunt's Budget

The winners and losers of Jeremy Hunt's Budget

Taxes, childcare and Brexit beer boost: The Telegraph's Camilla Tominey and Gordon Rayner join Christopher Hope to give us the top lines of Jeremy Hunt's Budget. Will the Chancellor keep the promise he made to Chopper on this podcast in January that his priority will be bringing down business taxes? Listen to find out (although we suspect you can take a guess...)!For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/chopper |Sign up to the Chopper's

Mar 15, 2023 • 34:39

Managing migration and Macron

Managing migration and Macron

Yvette Cooper MP joins Christopher Hope on the week that Rishi Sunak unveiled his plans to tackle illegal immigration. Conservatives think that illegal migration is the one policy area where the party can beat Labour, but the Shadow Home Secretary unsurprisingly disagrees.She tells Chopper that Labour ministers will set themselves the objective to stop all small boats' crossings in the English Channel. Plus in a show of cross-party praise, she hails Theresa May's work to help victims of peo

Mar 10, 2023 • 36:40

The Journalist and the Whistleblower:  The inside story of the Lockdown Files

The Journalist and the Whistleblower: The inside story of the Lockdown Files

More than 100,000 WhatsApp messages. 2.3 million words - the equivalent of three copies of the King James Bible. You’ve read the headlines about the Telegraph’s extraordinary examination of the Lockdown Files - and now you can hear from some of the journalists behind it. Christopher Hope is joined by the woman with the WhatsApps, Isabel Oakeshott, and Investigations Editor Claire Newell, in the newsroom where it happened. The pair tell Chopper how the team found the stories a

Mar 4, 2023 • 22:30

Has Brexit finally been done?

Has Brexit finally been done?

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, alongside the European Union president Ursula von der Leyen, announced details of the Windsor Framework this week, a deal he's hoping will put an end to the past six and a half years of wrangling to an end. So is the Brexit hurly-burly done? Has the battle been finally won? Joining Christopher Hope in the Red Lion to chew the fat is former Brexit adviser to Theresa May, Raoul Ruparel, on how this deal differs from its forebears.Plus the DUP's Sammy Wilson returns

Feb 28, 2023 • 37:31

Will no one rid me of this troublesome former PM?

Will no one rid me of this troublesome former PM?

Boris Johnson is turning into one regular headache for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. So this week Christopher Hope is looking at three spheres where the former PM is intent on sticking his oar in. First, the Brexit impasse in Northern Ireland. The DUP's Sammy Wilson joins Chopper to discuss whether Boris' interventions on a trade deal are helpful, whether a change in Westminster leadership could make a difference, and casts doubts on whether Rishi Sunak even understands the concept of the Union (o

Feb 23, 2023 • 40:35

Sturgeon says goodbye and what it means for Scotland

Sturgeon says goodbye and what it means for Scotland

Well, if there was any danger of recess getting boring, Nicola Sturgeon had other ideas. Just as Chopper was taking a well-earned holiday, the First Minister shocked Scotland and the United Kingdom by resigning after eight years in the job. So where does this leave Scotland and the future of the union, and what will be the ripple effect on Westminster?The Telegraph's Gordon Rayner and Alan Cochrane head to the studio to discuss just that, whether Sturgeon will end up backseat driving for the new

Feb 16, 2023 • 18:37

Capital punishment, pitiful polling and pogo sticks

Capital punishment, pitiful polling and pogo sticks

New deputy chair of the Conservative Party, Nickie Aiken MP joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion this week to vigorously defend her co-chair Lee Anderson, after he got into hot water this week for his views on hanging. The MP for Cities of London and Westminster blames the coverage of her colleague on snobbery from "intelligentsia", plus she decries polling in the Telegraph this week that puts the Tories down by a whopping 23%. Former Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg has a different view on

Feb 9, 2023 • 34:04

Happy Birthday Brexit?

Happy Birthday Brexit?

This week, Christopher Hope returns to his spiritual home, the Red Lion pub, to discuss, you guessed it, Brexit. Three years on from leaving the E.U., many grumblings rumble on. So joining Chris to discuss the Northern Ireland protocol, the Union and more, David Jones (Deputy Chairman of the European Research Group) & Alex Phillips (Former Brexit Party MEP & GB News Broadcaster). In fact, Alex has an announcement of her own. Plus, as the country is crippled by strikes and with anoth

Feb 3, 2023 • 44:23

Talking taxes with Jeremy Hunt

Talking taxes with Jeremy Hunt

Christopher Hope swaps the Red Lion for Number 11 Downing Street this week, as he sits down with Jeremy Hunt. The Chancellor tells Chopper that he and the Prime Minister are committed to cutting taxes, but won't be drawn on when, and that his focus this year will be on business and taking advantage of Brexit. Plus, he tries to woo the over 50s back into work, rules out running for leader again, and (very importantly) reveals his favourite fast food.For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: http

Jan 27, 2023 • 22:29

Let them eat cake

Let them eat cake

The last of the Hope family's Christmas cake joins the guests in the Red Lion this week, and Wes Streeting is the first to take Christopher Hope up on the offer of having a slice. The Shadow Health Secretary insists that Labour wouldn't be the "fun police" to ban cakes in offices following comments this week from the chair of the Food Standards Agency, explains why he won't "wag his finger" at people who use private healthcare and proclaims that he's up for a debate about his proposed NHS reform

Jan 20, 2023 • 44:14

Cash for litter

Cash for litter

Rebecca Pow joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion for some coffee in a china mug, as the Environment minister talks about the announcement that plastic cutlery, plates and polystyrene cups will soon be banned. She also reveals that a 'cash for trash' scheme looks set to get the green light, so get your litter pickers ready! Also on the podcast, John Baron expresses his dismay at the Foreign Office's shambolic handling of the issue of British Council's contractors stranded in Afghanistan, and J

Jan 14, 2023 • 41:13

Take Back Control

Take Back Control

On the week that the Prime Minister announced his 5 promises to voters, Science Minister George Freeman joins Christopher Hope to give his suggestions for 5 reasons to be cheerful, including getting rid of EU red tape, focusing on the "10% daft regulations" first. Also on the podcast, Shadow Cabinet Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds reacts to Sir Keir Starmer's reappropriation of the Brexit slogan "Take Back Control", and, after writing a biography of former Labour leader Wilson, what the current Lab

Jan 6, 2023 • 48:29

2022 in Review

2022 in Review

2023 is almost upon us, so join Christopher Hope, Gordon Rayner and Camilla Tominey to reflect on the wacky year just gone in Westminster. We've had four Chancellors, three Prime Ministers, two different monarchs and one 'tractor' watching MP, so plenty to discuss, plus a look ahead to what might be in store in the New Year.For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/chopper |Sign up to the Chopper's Politics newsletter: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politicsnewsletter |

Dec 31, 2022 • 49:08

Strikes, sexism and why MPs' second jobs are OK

Strikes, sexism and why MPs' second jobs are OK

Twas the strike before Christmas... on this week's festive edition of Choppers' Politics: Frances O'Grady gives her final interview as the General Secretary of the TUC, discussing strikes and the current gridlock between union leaders and the government. Robert Halfon MP, previously an outspoken and campaigning backbencher, swings by the Red Lion pub to explain how now, as a Minister of State in the Department of Education, he's taking that spirit and applying it to students affected by the Covi

Dec 23, 2022 • 56:33

Small boats and the silver exodus

Small boats and the silver exodus

Sir Robert Buckland KC and Jonathan Gullis bring their views on how to tackle the migrant crisis to the Red Lion this week. Robert Buckland calls talk of withdrawing from the European Convention of Human Rights "a red herring" fuelled by the fact the word Europe is "catnip" for some of his Conservative colleagues. Then Jonathan Gullis talks about his failed Bill to force Rishi Sunak to ignore rulings from Strasbourg over the deportation of asylum seekers to Rwanda, and why he was just trying to

Dec 16, 2022 • 44:51

Further strikes, fewer houses, and Farage

Further strikes, fewer houses, and Farage

James Sunderland, former Colonel in the Royal Logistics Corps, joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion to talk about why the MP for Bracknell thinks the government needs to stop relying on the armed forces to step in over strike action and suggests that "Mr Lynch and his cronies" should perhaps try earning what soldiers earn. Strong words. Also on the podcast, UK Director of think-tank More in Common, Luke Tryl, says that if political marmite figure Nigel Farage returned it could turbocharge Refo

Dec 8, 2022 • 40:26

A leap of faith

A leap of faith

All of Christopher Hope's guests this week are encouraging or have taken a leap of faith. Former Levelling Up Secretary Simon Clarke, now in the freedom of the backbenches, joins Chopper in the Red Lion to urge his fellow conservatives to rethink onshore windfarms and central housing targets and not fall for a "NIMBY's charter". Also on the podcast, William Wragg, MP for Hazel Grove, discusses why he's made the leap into leaving parliament after the next election despite only being 34.Plus

Dec 2, 2022 • 44:59

Starmer meets the students

Starmer meets the students

Sir Keir Starmer comes to Telegraph Towers and Christopher Hope hands over the microphone, as the politics class of St George's School, Harpenden, grill the Labour Leader. Up for discussion: Unions and the Union, as Mr Starmer defends not standing on picket lines with striking works and discusses his stance on indyref2, and he talks tax and claims that Labour is the party of sound money. Plus, who does Keir Starmer fancy to win the World Cup and will he reveal which Tory he kissed? Listen to fin

Nov 25, 2022 • 41:07

Making a statement

Making a statement

Well, what a difference 7 weeks makes. The Telegraph's Camilla Tominey and Gordon Rayner join Christopher Hope to give us the top lines of Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's Autumn Statement, somewhat different in tone to his predecessors less than two months ago.Also on the podcast, David Jones, MP for Clwyd West and prominent ERG member, gives his withering assessment of Mr Hunt's tax hikes (5/10, must do better), urges the Chancellor to reconsider for the sake of the next election and balks at the use

Nov 17, 2022 • 42:12

Is Reform UK coming for Conservative votes?

Is Reform UK coming for Conservative votes?

Leader of Reform UK, Richard Tice, joins Christopher Hope for a wide ranging chat about tax cuts, new open cast coal mines and veterans running the police, amongst other subjects. The former Brexit Party leader claims that in the fortnight since Truss resigned 4,534 people have signed up to join Reform UK - and that the Tories should be quaking. Tice sees the party's rise in popularity as a sign of anger at an "establishment coup" and gives Chancellor Jeremy Hunt a rather brutal career assessmen

Nov 14, 2022 • 39:47

Stop the poppy shaming says Armed Forces Minister

Stop the poppy shaming says Armed Forces Minister

James Heappey joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion ahead of Remembrance Day. The Armed Forces Minister reflects on the wearing of the poppy, decrying poppy shaming saying that you should choose to commemorate in a considered way, not wear a poppy out of obligation.Plus he discusses pausing to think of his service in Afghanistan with the Rifles during Remembrance services.Also on the podcast, Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey talks about Labour's commitment to NATO, and his concerns about th

Nov 11, 2022 • 36:14

Small boats, Brexit and climate change - it's a 2016 kind of week

Small boats, Brexit and climate change - it's a 2016 kind of week

Political debate is running at a quieter pace after the breakneck speeds of the last few weeks, so here at Chopper's Politics we're serving you some red meat topics of discussion this week.Ed Miliband joins Christopher Hope to discuss the importance of COP and why climate change isn't just a Left issue. Plus the former Labour leader gives his advice to Liz Truss on how to handle no longer having the top job, and reveals which reality TV shows have tried to court him, following the

Nov 4, 2022 • 45:39

Rishi Sunak: the comeback kid

Rishi Sunak: the comeback kid

Sir Iain Duncan Smith joins Christopher Hope to talk about the Conservative's latest leader (third time lucky?) and the country's new Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak. The former party leader warns that a combination of "higher taxes and big, big sweeping cuts" could plunge the UK "into deep recession" and urges Liz Truss to not intervene too much from the backbenches.Plus Chopper is joined by the Telegraph's Associate Editor Gordon Rayner to delve into the podcast vault and listen back to our interv

Oct 27, 2022 • 37:29

Hasta la vista, baby - is Boris on his way back?

Hasta la vista, baby - is Boris on his way back?

Jacob Rees-Mogg joins Christopher Hope to make his case for why Boris Johnson needs to take back the reins of the Tory party and the nation, following Liz Truss's shock resignation yesterday. He talks about the former PM's strong mandate and how the numbers already flocking to support him have been "pleasantly surprising". The Business Secretary also warns colleagues calling for a spell in opposition to remember the difficulties of the 90s... Also on the podcast, the Telegraph's Political Report

Oct 21, 2022 • 34:38

In office, but not in power

In office, but not in power

When the last episode of Chopper's Politics was published, we had a different Chancellor. By the time the next one comes out, we may well have another Prime Minister, the way this week is going.The Telegraph's own Ben Riley-Smith and Tony Diver join Christopher Hope to talk about burning the mini-Budget, if the Tories' time is up, and if (whisper it listeners) it might be an idea to bring back Boris.Plus former Telegraph writer George Trefgarne on why he thinks MPs, not Conservative party member

Oct 17, 2022 • 27:43

Is Truss' time up?

Is Truss' time up?

Charles Lewington, a former Press Secretary when Sir John Major was Prime Minister, joins Christopher Hope to talk about why he thinks Liz Truss will have to trim more measures from her mini-Budget to save her premiership, and whether Ben Wallace or Rishi Sunak could be the installed alternatives if the PM was forced to resign.Also in the Red Lion, the new Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Alicia Kearns, on how she'll take on the role, how her rivals dismissed her as 'an inexperienc

Oct 13, 2022 • 43:03

Live from CPC: Suella Braverman on boats, benefits and blaming the middle classes for Britain's drug problem

Live from CPC: Suella Braverman on boats, benefits and blaming the middle classes for Britain's drug problem

Suella Braverman joins Christopher Hope at the Conservative Party Conference, and causes a stir by accusing rebel colleagues of staging a coup against the 45p top rate of income tax. The Home Secretary stays on the fence on her party's latest row, whether benefits should rise in line with inflation next year, declares that she's proud of the British Empire, and boldly let's on that her "ultimate aspiration" is to reduce net migration to the UK to the tens of thousands. Plus, the MP for Fare

Oct 4, 2022 • 48:01

Live from CPC: Jacob Rees-Mogg on why the Chancellor shouldn't resign and fracking in his back garden

Live from CPC: Jacob Rees-Mogg on why the Chancellor shouldn't resign and fracking in his back garden

Jacob Rees-Mogg has the dubious honour of joining Christopher Hope at the Conservative Party Conference in the wake of the government's 45p tax cut U-turn. The Business and Energy Secretary scoffs at the idea that the Chancellor should resign, has strong words about how he'll approach China in his new role and declares that he would be more than happy for fracking to take place in his garden.Plus, Rees-Mogg delivers a polite jibe at our guest yesterday, Michael Gove, and sounds a death

Oct 3, 2022 • 49:07

Live from CPC: Michael Gove on being a rebel and Jake Berry on the next election

Live from CPC: Michael Gove on being a rebel and Jake Berry on the next election

It's a 2-for-1 deal on Chopper's Politics guests, as both Michael Gove and Jake Berry join Christopher Hope live at the Conservative Party Conference. After causing a stir on the broadcast rounds on Sunday morning, former Cabinet minister Michael Gove gave Prime Minister Liz Truss more headaches by calling for the decision to scrap the 45p top rate of income tax to be reversed, but denies the title of "rebel", claiming he's "just a backbencher".Also on the podcast, new Conservative Party Chairma

Oct 2, 2022 • 53:51

Trussonomics: what went wrong?

Trussonomics: what went wrong?

Julian Jessop, Economic Fellow at the Institute for Economic Affairs, joins Christopher Hope to talk about what went wrong for Trussonomics, and why he believes it's a case of fleshing out the plan, not about doing a U-turn.Also on the podcast, Restore Trusts' Zewditu Gebreyohanes takes Chopper through her concerns about the National Trust and why it's not just a case of a 'war on woke'.Plus the Telegraph's own Maighna Nanu on the point of party conferences when the country is in crisis. For 30

Sep 29, 2022 • 36:57

Mandy and Nandy: A Labour special

Mandy and Nandy: A Labour special

As the opposition's party conference takes place in Liverpool, Christopher Hope is joined by two Labour bigwigs from past and present.Architect of New Labour and now Chairman of Global Counsel, Peter Mandelson joins Christopher Hope to talk about why he believes the public thinks it is safe to vote Labour again, how Sir Keir Starmer's power is that he's "more national than ideological" and confessed that he misses being in Government "every single day". Plus, to Chopper's delight, he declares hi

Sep 25, 2022 • 37:19

The Trussonomics Budget

The Trussonomics Budget

From levelling up to trickling down: Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng's announcements today signal a seismic shift in policy from the new government. But will his and Liz Truss' gamble on future growth pay off, how does it affect the public, and how will Labour respond?To unpack the announcement Christopher Hope is joined in the studio by Whitehall Correspondent Tony Diver and Associate Editor Gordon Rayner.For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/chopper |Sign up to the C

Sep 23, 2022 • 18:24

Elizabeth the Good

Elizabeth the Good

Just like Westminster Hall which, this week especially, encompasses politics, history and the monarchy, so too does this episode of Chopper’s Politics.Historian Andrew Roberts joins Christopher Hope to talk about potential pitfalls facing Charles III, what the new monarch can learn from history, and why he's in favour of 'Elizabeth the Good' as a moniker for Queen Elizabeth II.The Telegraph's own Charles Moore on how be thinks we're seeing the British constitution working before our eyes, and if

Sep 15, 2022 • 43:54

Can Liz Truss keep the lights on?

Can Liz Truss keep the lights on?

This episode was recorded before the death of Queen Elizabeth II.Lord Martin Callanan, junior minister at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, joins Christopher Hope to explain the “bazooka” of Government spending the new Prime Minister has announced to deal with the impending energy crisis, and how it will impact us all.And director general of the IEA, Mark Littlewood, predicts a radical future for his old Oxford buddy Liz Truss, and insists that the fact she used to wea

Sep 8, 2022 • 46:36

Liz Truss is Prime Minister: what next?

Liz Truss is Prime Minister: what next?

Note: this was recorded on the afternoon of Monday 5th September, before Cabinet announcements. She beat off stiff competition but Liz Truss is, finally, after "the longest job interview in history", the new leader of the Conservative Party and very shortly the leader of the country.But now the leadership contest is over and a tsunami of real life troubles is headed for Westminster, how will the next PM fare in choppy waters? And which colleagues will be thrown a life-jacket in the form of a new

Sep 5, 2022 • 23:58

Top tips for the new Tory leader

Top tips for the new Tory leader

Ahead of finally finding out who the next Prime Minister will be, writer Matt Ridley joins Christopher Hope to give his 10 rules for the next Tory leader to live by, and, given the winter we have coming ahead, we're sure either Sunak or Truss would appreciate a how-to-guide. Matt warns Chopper about the dangers of 'crony capitalists' and people who claim to be able to predict the future, and hopes the next Prime Minister can learn a valuable lesson from lightbulbs.Also on the podcast, the Telegr

Sep 1, 2022 • 35:40

Sewage in the sea and bias at the BBC

Sewage in the sea and bias at the BBC

Former Environment minister Rebecca Pow joins Christopher Hope to discuss the topic taking the Telegraph comment section by storm this week - sewage pumping into our waterways. Rebecca says that "the whole sewage issue is being completely blown out of all proportion" but that she does understand concerns, plus the MP for Taunton Deane suggests some unusual ways you can make the most of water you use at home.Also on the podcast, former BBC reporter Lewis Goodall talks about his new podcast with e

Aug 26, 2022 • 36:02

Rishi Sunak on navigating a cost of living crisis and a cheeky Nando's

Rishi Sunak on navigating a cost of living crisis and a cheeky Nando's

Rishi Sunak, former Chancellor and now Tory leadership hopeful, has a cup of tea and a doughnut with Christopher Hope at his campaign HQ. We've heard about his policies ad infinitum these last few weeks (feels like longer, doesn't it listeners), so while we do hear about tax and his childhood, he also tells Chopper how he's not paying too much attention to the polls, reveals his binge watch viewing habits and claims he doesn't mind being asked about his wealth.Plus Chopper puts your questions to

Aug 19, 2022 • 31:42

Tory Leadership Hustings: Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak in Cheltenham

Tory Leadership Hustings: Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak in Cheltenham

Chopper's taking a summer break, so in his absence we're bringing you one of the Conservative Party leadership hustings, chaired by the Telegraph's own Camilla Tominey in Cheltenham.The final two candidates were grilled on pivotal topics, from tax cuts and reforms to the economy, that will shape party members’ decisions - and Britain’s future. With six official hustings down and six more to go, who gained an advantage in the increasingly bitter race for No 10? Listen to find out.Watch the hustin

Aug 12, 2022 • 1:09:27

Why Britain isn't working, and is Truss or Sunak best for Brexit?

Why Britain isn't working, and is Truss or Sunak best for Brexit?

As the mud-slinging between the Tories goes on, the rest of us are dealing with train strikes, delays at Dover and passport panics. Kit Malthouse, new Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub, to talk about how his role is to get a grip on these issues (and why it's not an issue that he was chairing COBRA meetings rather than Boris Johnson...). The MP for North West Hampshire also talks about how working from home culture risks damaging public services, an

Jul 28, 2022 • 40:55

"They got it wrong over Brexit, and they're getting it wrong over Boris"

"They got it wrong over Brexit, and they're getting it wrong over Boris"

And then there were two. After the longest two weeks in existence, the final candidates in the Tory leadership election have been decided - Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss. But is it possible that some Conservatives are getting seller’s remorse with regards to their recently departed leader? Former party treasurer Lord Cruddas of Shoreditch - Peter Cruddas - joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion to make his pitch as to why he believes the members need their say on Boris Johnson. Plus former Conservat

Jul 21, 2022 • 47:45

The race to become Conservative Party leader

The race to become Conservative Party leader

The knives are out in Westminster as Conservative MPs vie to become the next leader of the party. It's the battle of the slogans: will Britain be "Ready for Rishi" or will P.M. be PM?The Telegraph's Associate Editor for Politics, Christopher Hope, is back in the Red Lion pub and joined by cheerleaders for two of the candidates, David Davis MP and Steve Baker MP. The latter was setting out his stall to Suella Braverman who, as of this afternoon, is no longer in the running. Steve had strong opini

Jul 14, 2022 • 41:33

Boris resigns: how it happened and what next?

Boris resigns: how it happened and what next?

They say a week’s a long time in politics, but for Boris Johnson, the past 24 hours must have felt like an eternity. A bruising PMQs, a blistering Liaison Committee and over 50 ministerial resignations, the most in modern history. To unpack the latest news and analysis, and to try and understand what’s next, Associate Editor Camilla Tominey is joined in the studio with Associate Editor Gordon Rayner and down the line with Telegraph leader writer, Tim Stanley. For 30 days' free access to The Tele

Jul 7, 2022 • 24:30

Cracks in the Red Wall, Lee Anderson on being a Tory, and indyref2

Cracks in the Red Wall, Lee Anderson on being a Tory, and indyref2

This week saw SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon made her intentions very clear to hold an indyref2, just 8 years since the last "once in a lifetime" referendum in 2014. But is her move legal? Former Conservative Scottish Secretary David Mundell joins Christopher Hope to unpack what exactly is going on.Also joining Chris in the Red Lion pub this week is MP for Ashfield Lee Anderson, who's courted controversy recently for comments over foodbanks. He popped by and also gave his twopence on Steve Bray, the

Jul 1, 2022 • 41:22

Boris' By-election Blues

Boris' By-election Blues

The biggest rail strike in a generation might mean the trains aren't moving, but politics certainly is.The Telegraph's own Gordon Rayner joins Christopher Hope to chew the fat after the Conservatives faced bruising losses in both Tiverton and Honiton, and Wakefield, and wonders whether there was a coded message in Oliver Dowden's resignation letter, after the Party Chairman fell on his sword in the early hours of Friday morning.Also on the podcast, former advisor to Boris Johnson and partner at

Jun 24, 2022 • 38:57

European courts and British borders with Suella Braverman

European courts and British borders with Suella Braverman

Attorney General Suella Braverman joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion on a week where her role has been thrown in the spotlight. She apologises for using the term "all options are on the table" when it comes to the UK's relationship with the European Court of Human Rights, following their invention on sending asylum seekers to Rwanda, and defends the controversial policy. Plus the Attorney General also tackles borders and Brexit, states that she feels the BBC has a bias towards the EU, and, f

Jun 17, 2022 • 43:52

Blue on Blue

Blue on Blue

The gloves are off when it comes to Conservatives voicing their thoughts on their leader this week, so Christopher Hope invites both sides of the argument to the Red Lion to duke it out (with words, that is).Northern Ireland Minister and long-time Johnson ally, Conor Burns MP, makes his case in defence of the Prime Minister, letting listeners know that Boris Johnson isn't someone to give up lightly. While in the other corner of the ring, Conservative Home founder Tim Montgomerie bemoans the lack

Jun 9, 2022 • 50:52

Boris Johnson survives no confidence vote - but what's next?

Boris Johnson survives no confidence vote - but what's next?

The Telegraph's Associate Editor Camilla Tominey and Whitehall Correspondent Tony Diver join Christopher Hope at Telegraph towers to react to Monday night's no confidence vote in Boris Johnson. The Prime Minister may have secured the support of 211 Tories against 148 rebels, but are there still choppy waters ahead? The gang place their bets on if the PM will still be leading the party by the next election, consider whether the Conservatives can please both heartland and Red Wall voters, and disc

Jun 7, 2022 • 18:58

Why Labour should embrace patriotism

Why Labour should embrace patriotism

It's a week of pageantry, parties and platinum pudding for Her Majesty's Jubilee, so Christopher Hope decided to call up the Shadow Justice Secretary, Labour's Steve Reed, to talk about Labour's relationship to patriotism. The MP for Croydon North tells Chris that Labour's relationship to national pride under Jeremy Corbyn was 'an aberration', that some unease might come from confusing narrow nationalism with patriotism and why he believes that he's patriotic because he's Labour, not despite it.

May 30, 2022 • 18:02

It's... the Sue Gray report

It's... the Sue Gray report

No, not Wagatha Christie; the hottest story of the week has of course been the Sue Gray report, and Christopher Hope gets the reaction from a fantastic collection of guests on this week's Chopper's Politics. Trade Minister Penny Mordaunt makes the short trip to the Red Lion pub to say that her party need to 'get on with it' to prove their worth post partygate, to talk about our first trade deal with a US state, and to indulge Chopper in a solid 3 minutes of national flagship discussion (you've b

May 26, 2022 • 47:27

I beg your garden? The Environment Minister on net zero and talking to plants

I beg your garden? The Environment Minister on net zero and talking to plants

Rebecca Pow, The Environment Minister, joins Christopher "Chopper" Hope to explain why on earth she's asking us to befriend an insect, explains how she's working on cleaning up our rivers (and not just for wild swimming) and reveals why she takes a leaf out of Prince Charles' book and talks to her plants.Also on the podcast, head of the English Football League, Rick Parry, on the role the beautiful game can play in the government's levelling up agenda.For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: h

May 19, 2022 • 34:06

Neil Parish's Exit Interview

Neil Parish's Exit Interview

Neil Parish, the MP who resigned after it was revealed he had watched porn in the Commons, joins Christopher Hope to give his final interview before handing in his badge at Westminster. The former Conservative MP for Tiverton and Honiton expresses his wish to apologise to the witnesses directly, argues that the complaint procedure does not allow for MPs who want to admit wrongdoing, and hints at a possible return as an independent MP - watch this space. Also on the podcast, Leader of the Common

May 12, 2022 • 48:21

Labour's London, Lib Dem fight back, and all the local election latest

Labour's London, Lib Dem fight back, and all the local election latest

In this emergency local elections special, Christopher Hope is joined by pollster Martin Baxter from Electoral Calculus and the Telegraph's Political Editor Ben Riley-Smith to chew the fat as the results keep coming in. What impact would these results have if they were mirrored in a general election, have they helped or hindered party leaders, and should politicos keep a keen eye on another potential C-word (whisper it listeners, coalition).Plus MP for Yeovil Marcus Fysh on losing local councils

May 6, 2022 • 27:55

Local elections and lasting change in Westminster culture

Local elections and lasting change in Westminster culture

NB: This podcast was recorded and released on Wednesday 4th May 2022, before polls opened for local elections.Join Christopher Hope for this pre-local elections special of Chopper's Politics. Chris chews the fact with our Whitehall correspondent Tony Diver in the lobby room about how it might go for all the major parties, and whether more eyes should be on Stormont on polling day. Plus Chris talks to the residents of Wandsworth, a totemic Tory-held council that could turn Red for the first time

May 4, 2022 • 33:44

What a week to be a woman in Westminster

What a week to be a woman in Westminster

In this bumper bank holiday episode of Chopper's Politics, Christopher Hope is joined by the Chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, Caroline Nokes MP, in the Red Lion pub, to talk about a tough week to be a woman in Westminster. She shares her personal experience of being on the receiving end of questionable sexist behavior, argues that whips need to be better at seeing the talents of their female colleagues and muses on "a certain type of particularly macho willy-waving man" that is drawn

Apr 29, 2022 • 59:53

Sorry Not Sorry

Sorry Not Sorry

Mark Harper, former Chief Whip, joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub on the week he told the Commons he no longer thinks the Prime Minister is "worthy of the great office he holds". The MP for the Forest of Dean nails his colours to the mast and says Boris Johnson is likely to face a vote of no confidence from his own MPs within the next three months, and that he's not sure the PM truly meant his numerous apologies. Ouch. On the opposite side of the ring, and also o

Apr 21, 2022 • 46:52

Hosting a family, fines, and frontline reporting

Hosting a family, fines, and frontline reporting

Robert Jenrick, former Housing Secretary, joins Christopher Hope as Easter in the Jenrick household will have a few more guests this year. The MP for Newark has a Ukrainian family staying with his own, thought to be the first MP to take in refugees under the new Home Office scheme. He tells Chris that red tape has "tested the patience" of those trying to be hosts, and he insists that despite the Prime Minister being sanctioned for gatherings during lockdowns, the idea that he

Apr 14, 2022 • 39:07

How will history judge Boris Johnson?

How will history judge Boris Johnson?

Christopher Hope is taking a well deserved break this week, so as a special treat to Chopper's Politics listeners we're bringing you a panel discussion from a recent Telegraph event. And for the first Telegraph event for some time, Chopper thought he'd tackle quite a meaty topic, and so the subject of the day was How Will History Judge Boris Johnson? To answer that question he was joined by a group of people who know the Prime Minister best. Andrew Gimson, the author of the celebrated biography

Apr 7, 2022 • 53:48

Nadhim Zahawi on why young people aren't snowflakes

Nadhim Zahawi on why young people aren't snowflakes

The Education Secretary joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion following the release of his white paper. Nadhim Zahawi stresses why he thinks teachers should focus on teaching young minds how to think, not what to think, why schools should maybe have stayed open for everyone during the pandemic, and how he's applying his experience from the vaccine rollout to his new role. Plus, the Telegraph's Ben Riley-Smith gives us the lay of the land when it comes to the Prime Minister's

Apr 1, 2022 • 46:10

A Ukrainian in London

A Ukrainian in London

Vika arrived in the UK on Monday this week, carrying all of her belongings in a single suitcase. She's a Ukrainian currently staying with environment minister Victoria Prentis MP, and they both joined Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub in Westminster to talk about Vika's journey out of Ukraine in blacked out trains, and how she's looking forward to getting back to Kyiv to rebuild her country. First MP to take in Ukrainian refugee says she wants to give them ‘the skills to rebuild Kyiv, by Chri

Mar 25, 2022 • 23:14

Sunak's Spring Statement: 5 things you need to know

Sunak's Spring Statement: 5 things you need to know

Christopher Hope is joined by The Telegraph's Gordon Rayner and Juliet Samuel to discuss the ins and outs of the Spring Statement. What are the big 5 takeaways from announcements, will it come close to helping households during a cost of living crisis, and what does it mean for Chancellor Rishi Sunak politically? All discussed within.Read more from Gordon Rayner: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/g/gk-go/gordon-rayner/ |Read more from Juliet Samuel: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/j/ju-jz/

Mar 23, 2022 • 31:01

Talking Brexit, green tech and taxes with Tony Danker of the CBI

Talking Brexit, green tech and taxes with Tony Danker of the CBI

Tony Danker joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion for a lookahead to this week's Spring Statement. The Director General of the CBI warns that taxes or borrowing may have to rise again unless ministers use Brexit to turbocharge growth, and insists he wasn't offended by last year's infamous "Peppa Pig" speech by the PM. Also on the podcast, Ipsos' Kelly Beaver with some exclusive polling for Chopper's Politics on tax, including whether Chancellor Rishi Sunak needs to worry about h

Mar 21, 2022 • 41:31

Oliver Dowden on diversity

Oliver Dowden on diversity

Christopher Hope escapes the Red Lion to join Conservative Party Co-Chair Oliver Dowden for a tea and salt beef sandwich in his constituency. The former Culture Secretary claims that he wants to see 'genuine diversity' in the new Tory candidates list - and why he doesn't see that goal as 'woke'. Plus he'll put his foot down on raising taxes, and takes Chris on a trip to his childhood home. Also on the podcast: Lesia Vasylenko on what she's pitching to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as pa

Mar 17, 2022 • 41:01

Jacob Rees-Mogg on Putin, Partygate and energy prices

Jacob Rees-Mogg on Putin, Partygate and energy prices

Jacob Rees-Mogg joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion for a wide-ranging interview over a coffee. The Minister for Brexit Opportunities sets out the pros and cons for fracking amidst a looming energy crisis and sanctions on Russian oil, and claims that Partygate and “woke stuff” are fading out of view in light of world events. Plus, an exciting announcement for Royal Yacht watchers. Also on the podcast: satirical comedian and host of BBC Radio 4's The News Quiz, Andy Zaltzman, on how to find hu

Mar 10, 2022 • 34:23

To Ukraine, with love

To Ukraine, with love

Lord David Owen, former Foreign Secretary, joins Christopher Hope to discuss why he thinks Ukraine is Vladimir Putin's undoing, how the Russian President's approach has radically changed since he first took power, and his fears about nuclear threats.Also on the podcast: Director of the Ukrainian Institute in London, Olesya Khromeychuk, on why global action against Russia should have been taken years ago, plus Tory MP Nickie Aiken on why she's pushing for greater gove

Mar 4, 2022 • 37:21

The MP, the journalist and the businessman-turned-Molotov maker

The MP, the journalist and the businessman-turned-Molotov maker

Almost six days on from Putin's invasion of Ukraine, Christopher Hope is joined by those on the ground for a bonus episode of Chopper's Politics.From Kyiv, Ukrainian MP Inna Sovsun sets out what she feels her country needs when it comes to help from the West, and fresh from Ukraine's second city of Kharkiv, the Telegraph's own Roland Oliphant tells Chris why he thinks trouble may be ahead for Russia.Plus Peter Thomson, a Ukrainian resident originally from Scotland, tells us how the invasion has

Mar 1, 2022 • 40:33

Russia invades Ukraine: how should the UK respond?

Russia invades Ukraine: how should the UK respond?

A dark day for Europe. Armed forces minister James Heappey joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub to talk about how the government should respond to Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. The MP for Wells warns that decisions made in Western capitals over the next week cannot be viewed as a "quick fix" for such an 'epoch changing' moment, and why the UK will not be committing troops. Also on the podcast, Bob Seely MP, decries years of what he calls 'government complacency then panic

Feb 24, 2022 • 45:28

The disruptive life of Nigel Farage

The disruptive life of Nigel Farage

Nigel Farage is the latest person under Michael Crick's microscope, as the veteran broadcaster attempts to demystify one of Britain's most complex politicians in his new book.He joins Christopher Hope to discuss the moments that should have ended Mr Farage's political rise; how history will measure the man ("It all depends on the success of Brexit!") and what he thinks the former UKIP leader has in common with Tony Blair.Plus Chris and Michael compare war stories of long lunches with the politic

Feb 18, 2022 • 34:34

Rosie Duffield on MPs' safety and feeling abandoned by Labour

Rosie Duffield on MPs' safety and feeling abandoned by Labour

Labour MP Rosie Duffield joins Christopher Hope at his favourite table at the Red Lion pub for a frank discussion on the realities of being a politician. She opens up on why she doesn't feel supported by her party following a distressing harassment campaign, and tells us whether she's tempted to defect to another altogether. Also on the podcast: Tory donor and businessman Johnny Leavesley tells us why Boris Johnson needs to 'get a grip', and whether current turbulence in Downing Street will see

Feb 11, 2022 • 46:07

Just what is 'levelling up'?

Just what is 'levelling up'?

Neil O'Brien, Minister in the Levelling Up department, joins Christopher Hope to dissect a very important document released in Westminster this week - and no, we don't mean that one. The MP for Harborough, Oadby & Wigston claims you can "level up" in Chelsea and assures Chris that it isn't a "North vs South thing". Also on the podcast, Shadow Secretary for Levelling Up, Lisa Nandy MP, tells us she'd have been right there "cheering from the rafters" offering Michael Gove her support if t

Feb 5, 2022 • 41:59

Anthony Mangnall MP on submitting a letter of no confidence

Anthony Mangnall MP on submitting a letter of no confidence

Anthony Mangnall, MP for Totnes and South Devon, joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub to talk about becoming the 12th Tory MP to publicly submit a letter of no confidence in Boris Johnson. He explains his reasoning to Chris (before the whips or his family!) about how he feels he can't stand by as "good work" is "overshadowed by the actions of one man", and how he didn't come into politics to lie to people, or be lied to, but to help people. For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph:&n

Feb 2, 2022 • 16:40

Sue Gray day

Sue Gray day

It's the day all politicos have been waiting for. Well, sort of. Christopher Hope is joined by Telegraph colleagues Camilla Tominey and Gordon Rayner to take you inside what the 12 pages of Gray truly mean. Is it "sorry, not sorry" from Boris? How will ambitious backbench Tories leverage a floundering PM? And what will be the impact of, to quote Harold Macmillan, 'events, dear boy, events', such as simmering tensions in Ukraine?  Listen for full enlightenment.For 30 days' free access to The Tele

Jan 31, 2022 • 23:48

To have your cake

To have your cake

"He was ambushed by a cake," said Conor Burns MP earlier this week, when asked about Boris Johnson's apparent birthday gathering in 2020: the PM's latest Partygate woe. But on this week's Chopper's Politics the Northern Ireland Minister joins Christopher Hope and makes a stunning revelation - there was no cake at all! He gives an impassioned defence of the PM, and tells listeners why he should stay as the top dog in Downing Street (with the greatest of respect to Dilyn, of course).Also on the po

Jan 27, 2022 • 41:14

David Davis on putting people and party ahead of PM

David Davis on putting people and party ahead of PM

Tory grandee David Davis joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub for the interview everybody wanted. The former Brexit Secretary explains why he used PMQs to call for the PM to stand aside "in the name of God" and laughs heartily at the idea of stepping in as interim leader (that's not a no, though).Plus the Telegraph's Tony Diver on his scoop that caused woe at Number 10 (suitcase of booze, anyone?), and Chris Loder MP on how the 2019 Conservative intake are dealing with Partygate a

Jan 20, 2022 • 46:14

Ian Blackford on Independence, integrity, and anti-English sentiment

Ian Blackford on Independence, integrity, and anti-English sentiment

In a Chopper's Politics podcast first, Ian Blackford, the SNP leader of Westminster, joins Christopher Hope as his favourite table in the Red Lion pub. While Britain is distracted by BYOB boozy parties, Ian and Chris get stuck into one of the big political questions of the next few years: will we soon see an Independent Scotland. Plus Ian reveals what it's really like having to work with a Tory government, claims Scotland will keep the pound in the event they leave the union, and makes it clear

Jan 17, 2022 • 31:55

No confidence

No confidence

Longtime Brexiteer Tory MP, Andrew Bridgen, joins Christopher Hope to exclusively reveal that he's submitted a 'letter of no confidence' in Boris Johnson over what he sees as a moral vacuum in government, and assures Chris that Bridgen Towers held no BYOB parties, thank you very much.Also on the podcast: Conservative MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, Miriam Cates, joins us in the Red Lion pub after the PM's bruising PMQs this week. As a member of the Education Select committee, she shares her c

Jan 13, 2022 • 40:04

Nigel Farage on why the Right is ready to revolt

Nigel Farage on why the Right is ready to revolt

Allegedly retired politician and current President of Reform UK, Nigel Farage, joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion for the first Chopper's Politics of 2022.The former UKIP leader paints a gloomy picture for the Prime Minister, predicting another seismic shift away from the Tories in Red Wall seats and the ousting of yet another Tory leader.Also on the podcast: Conservative MP for Stevenage Stephen McPartland shares his concerns for families facing a choice between eating and heating as a hike

Jan 7, 2022 • 39:37

Chopper's Festive Quiz

Chopper's Festive Quiz

In need of some seasonal cheer? Are the daily lateral flows somewhat dampening your spirits? Come and join Christopher Hope, plus his Telegraph pals, for Chopper's Festive Quiz.Chopper is joined by Camilla Tominey, Tim Stanley and Michael Deacon for a fittingly chaotic look back over 2021. Will you beat our team of top hacks? Given we know the scores, we have a sneaking suspicion you might...For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/chopper |Sign up to the C

Dec 24, 2021 • 36:09

The backbench rebel and the veteran hacks

The backbench rebel and the veteran hacks

Fresh from rebellion in the Commons, Conservative MP for Bishop Auckland and one of Parliament’s youngest sitting politicians, Dehenna Davison joins Christopher Hope on his favourite table in the Red Lion pub. But does her recent vote against the PM’s Covid pass scheme indicate waning confidence in his leadership? How will the Tories make “levelling up” more than just a catchphrase? And is politics all she expected? Listen to find out.Plus: after over three decades at Sky and ITV respectively, p

Dec 17, 2021 • 39:54

"The public aren't fools"

"The public aren't fools"

After Christmas party shenanigans and new Covid measures, there's a not so festive fallout this week in Westminster.Christopher Hope is joined this week by Conservative MP for Hazel Grove in Greater Manchester, William Wragg, fresh from shouting "Resign!" at the Health Secretary in the Commons, to express his despair at the Plan B pandemic measures being ushered in next week. He urges MPs to stick to their guns and rebel if they too don't agree with vaccine passports and mandatory jabs.Also on t

Dec 10, 2021 • 38:00

Pricey PCR tests and 'Remainer Publishers'

Pricey PCR tests and 'Remainer Publishers'

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps MP joins Chris on the podcast this week urging listeners to still book holidays, as long as you have insurance, discuss why he doesn't think expensive on return PCR tests should have their price capped, and assures Chris that one day he'll make train seats more comfortable...He also shamelessly blames his elderly dog for his current lack of travel plans (#JusticeForMrCrumble).Plus, ERG Chair Mark Francois MP returns to The Red Lion pub to announce an early Christ

Dec 2, 2021 • 40:09

Sadiq Khan on face masks, culture wars and why he loves the Northern line

Sadiq Khan on face masks, culture wars and why he loves the Northern line

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, joins Christopher Hope for his first Chopper's Politics. He tells listeners why he's trying to persuade the government to have police officers enforce mask wearing on the tube once again, why he's not sold on a wealth tax in London and whether Christmas could be cancelled once again in the capital.Plus - in the reveal you've all been waiting for, the Mayor discloses his favourite fast food chicken joint.For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: htt

Nov 26, 2021 • 37:56

Chopper's Festive Book Club

Chopper's Festive Book Club

This week Christopher Hope brings you three books to bestow upon the political nerd in your life this Christmas. And we've even given Chopper's listeners enough time to order them, regardless of potential supply issues! Don't say we don't treat you. Legendary broadcaster Michael Cockerell joins Chris to talk about 'Unmasking our Leaders: Confessions of a political documentary maker', which charts his infamous interviews with 12 Prime Ministers, and a few party leaders for good measure. Find out

Nov 19, 2021 • 38:52

Boris's beef with business

Boris's beef with business

Stuart Rose, Conservative peer and former head of M&S, Argos, the Arcadia group, and pretty much every other big retail business you can think of, joins Christopher Hope to lay the path towards patching the rift between the Tory party and business. He tells us why he thinks Brexit has left a bad smell between the business leaders and government, but why everyone just needs to move on.Also on the podcast, Care Minister Gillian Keegan on this week's "jabs for jobs" announcement for ca

Nov 11, 2021 • 36:27

Matt Hancock on trolls, Tony Blair and 'Tory scum'

Matt Hancock on trolls, Tony Blair and 'Tory scum'

In his first interview since he quit the post, former Health secretary Matt Hancock and Labour backbencher Rupa Huq join Christopher Hope to explain why they are joining forces to escalate the conversation about the online abuse of MPs. Ms Huq weighs up whether more needs to be done about anonymous social media accounts, while Mr Hancock reveals which surprising well-known figure has been giving him advice on avoiding the trolls.Also on the podcast, the Telegraph's Camilla Tominey gives us the l

Nov 4, 2021 • 47:38

Hey Big Spender

Hey Big Spender

The morning after the Chancellor laid out his mass spending spree for the post-Covid era, the Telegraph's Deputy Political Editor Lucy Fisher keeps the microphone warm for a holidaying Chopper. She's joined by The Telegraph's Whitehall Editor Harry Yorke and columnist Juliet Samuel to discuss the ins and outs of the Autumn Budget.Who fares the best from the announcements, is it as bold as Sunak would like us to believe, and is it easy to be green when you're holding the purse strings? All discus

Oct 28, 2021 • 24:20

More in common

More in common

The death of Sir David Amess cast a shadow over Westminster this week, and in the wake of such a shocking loss comes renewed discussions around MPs' safety.Former Environment and Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers opens up about the threats she's received, cautions against disrupting constituents' access to their MP and tells Chopper why comments about "Tory scum" just aren't helpful.Also on the podcast: Andrew Mitchell MP gives us a glimpse behind the fringe in his new memoir and share

Oct 21, 2021 • 41:15

The B word is back

The B word is back

The EU Ambassador to the UK, João Vale de Almeida, joins Christopher Hope on Chopper's Politics as this week Brussels has moved to bend and break their own rules with new proposals to cool tensions over the implementation of Northern Ireland Protocol. He insists the EU isn't a 'punisher', and argues that the European Court of Justice is a necessary referee in football match of the single market. The Telegraph's Europe Editor James Crisp and the Whitehall Editor Harry Yorke react to

Oct 14, 2021 • 40:57

Liz Truss on trade deals, the trans debate and the next James Bond

Liz Truss on trade deals, the trans debate and the next James Bond

New foreign secretary Liz Truss gives The Telegraph’s Associate Editor, Camilla Tominey the inside line on her first few weeks in the role. Did the appointment come as a surprise? After the fall of Kabul, will she recognise The Taliban as the leaders of Afghanistan? And, in her second role as Women and Equalities Minister, does she still have faith in police chief Cressida Dick following the disturbing revelations surrounding Sarah Everard’s death? All this and more, including Ms Truss’

Oct 6, 2021 • 40:46

Oliver Dowden on levelling up, the next election and Labour’s woke problem

Oliver Dowden on levelling up, the next election and Labour’s woke problem

New Conservative party co-chair Oliver Dowden gives Christopher Hope the inside track on his appointment, including a rather curious instruction bestowed upon him by the PM. But how will he increase party support? Is the membership simply too old? And what will a new HQ in Leeds mean for the grassroots? All this and more, including an attack on the “middle-class outlook” he claims dominates Labour ranks, and a glimpse into the Dowden family dynamics, as the MP tells us why he still gets in troub

Oct 5, 2021 • 41:38

Nadine Dorries on snobbery, trolling and the future of the BBC

Nadine Dorries on snobbery, trolling and the future of the BBC

New Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries joins Christopher Hope live at the Conservative Party Conference in her first broadcast interview in the role. The best-selling author and MP for Mid-Bedfordshire declares the days of tokenism at the BBC over, dismisses "snobbery" surrounding her appointment, and comes down hard on Angela Rayner's comments about "Tory scum".Plus: Ms Dorries reveals whether she would pay her TV license if it weren't compulsory and why, as the tenth

Oct 4, 2021 • 45:14

Jacob Rees-Mogg gets down with the kids

Jacob Rees-Mogg gets down with the kids

The Leader of the House of Commons, twenty students and a pub in Westminster. Christopher Hope hands the microphone over to the most politically engaged young people since Jacob Rees-Mogg was a lad, as the politics class of St George's School, Harpenden, grill the Conservative MP. Up for discussion: carbon zero, mental health policy and whether his tax affairs are truly above board. Plus, is Mr Rees-Mogg still chasing his own teenage ambition of becoming Prime Minister? And what's his McDonald's

Sep 30, 2021 • 40:28

Patriotism, protocols and "prenez un grip"

Patriotism, protocols and "prenez un grip"

Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy joins Christopher Hope on the podcast this week to talk about why she thinks Labour needs to harness the "quiet patriotism" of the nation, and throws her weight behind Sir Keir Starmer's Labour reforms. Plus, she reveals what top job she's really after (spoiler alert: it's not the Labour leader).Also on the podcast, DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson reacts to President Joe Biden's warning shots to Boris Johnson over the Northern Irish Protocol.And former Foreig

Sep 23, 2021 • 42:38

Peter Mandelson: We need to rewire the Labour Party

Peter Mandelson: We need to rewire the Labour Party

As conference season approaches, how can Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer sell himself to the nation, as well as to the Party itself? One man with a plan is Lord Peter Mandelson, Blairite grandee and one of the architects of New Labour. He tells Christopher Hope whether he thinks Starmer needs a "Kinnock moment", why he thinks the Party needs to lead a "complete rewiring", and in the political bombshell of the century, reveals whether he really mistook mushy peas for guacamole.

Sep 16, 2021 • 45:55

Tax, tax and tax some more

Tax, tax and tax some more

The biggest tax rises since World War II dominate the discussion this week, with every guest giving their two cents on the government's manifesto-breaking move to fund social care.Cabinet Office Minister Chloe Smith joins Christopher Hope in the Red Lion pub to discuss two new Bills that could, controversially, see passports required at the ballot box, plus she defies critics who say the National Insurance rise is un-Conservative.Also on the podcast, Martin Baxter from elections experts Electora

Sep 10, 2021 • 36:31

Minister, veteran, human

Minister, veteran, human

Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey joins Christopher Hope to reflect on the tumultuous exit from Afghanistan and what the UK's future relationship with the country might look like. Speaking in Westminster's legendary Red Lion pub, he dismisses suggestions of a blame game battle between the Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence, tells us what he really thinks about the charity chief who evacuated animals out of Kabul, Pen Farthing, and discusses the "wobble in confidence and mojo" in th

Sep 9, 2021 • 27:48

Are the Paralympics under threat?

Are the Paralympics under threat?

They’re supposed to be apolitical, but as we know, politics is everywhere. On today’s show, broadcaster and co-founder of the company behind the official Paralympic coverage, Jake Humphrey, and three-time Paralympian David Clarke join Christopher Hope to dissect whether a government proposal to sell off Channel 4 might spell trouble for the Games. Could it set years of progress in the representation of people with disabilities on the television into reverse?Also on the podcast: Environment minis

Sep 2, 2021 • 31:22

Sasha Swire on scandals, secrets and "slinkies"

Sasha Swire on scandals, secrets and "slinkies"

Political diaries are a staple of Westminster, but normally they're written by politicians and can be (whisper it) a tad dull. Enter Sasha Swire, wife of former foreign office minister Sir Hugo Swire, whose book 'Diary of an MPs wife' caused quite the stir last year. On this week's podcast, Sasha joins Christopher Hope to talk for the first time since the dust has settled, and explains how her different perspective as a political partner is what brings her observations to life, and how

Aug 26, 2021 • 47:16

My way or the highway

My way or the highway

Boris Johnson should sack ministers who don't have green cars. So says one of our guests on this week's podcast, James Frayne, from policy research agency Public First. He joins Christopher Hope to talk about why he thinks ministers need to put their money where their mouth is when it comes to green policies, and why Westminster needs to accept that the car is here to stay.Also on the show: Conservative MP Owen Paterson on why the Taliban takeover is the UK's biggest source of shame since Suez a

Aug 19, 2021 • 37:32

Chopper's Book Club

Chopper's Book Club

What's better than a good read on the beach, even if we can't make the beach... and it's grey outside. With Parliament in recess, Christopher Hope brings you a taste of two political books that are sure to keep you busy. Iain Dale and Duncan Brack join Chris to talk about 'Prime Minister Priti: And Other Things that Never Happened', a collection of political 'what ifs'. Find out which scenario Duncan thinks should stay firmly in the horror section, and which unpredictable sliding door moment has

Aug 12, 2021 • 24:24

All aboard! Defence Secretary Ben Wallace on a new national flagship

All aboard! Defence Secretary Ben Wallace on a new national flagship

The government has finally revealed more details about their plans to build a new national flagship to replace the Royal Yacht Britannia, so Christopher Hope is joined by Defence Secretary Ben Wallace to talk about whether the ship will really pay for itself "many, many times over" as the Prime Minister claims, the lasting impact of the project with rival the London 2012 Olympics, and why the Minister thinks "basket weaving, leftie Islington nonsense" is stopping Labour from understanding the be

Aug 2, 2021 • 21:36

Not a silver bullet, but a green one

Not a silver bullet, but a green one

Allegra Stratton, the PM's spokesperson for the COP26 climate summit, caused a stir this week by suggesting we shouldn't pre-wash our dishes in order to help the environment. She joins Christopher Hope to discuss other steps we can all be taking to be more green and why in this time of extreme weather events that is so important. Plus she discusses her job that never was as Boris Johnson's Press Secretary, and answers what would have been Chris' killer first question: would you ever lie for the

Jul 29, 2021 • 41:58

Cummings' curtain call?

Cummings' curtain call?

Leaks. Journalists love them, the Prime Minister hates them and Dominic Cummings can’t stop sending them to the BBC. On this week’s podcast, ally of the PM, Conor Burns MP, tells Christopher Hope why the government’s inner workings have improved “dramatically” since the former SpAd’s departure, why Boris Johnson’s leaked WhatsApp messages only tell half the story and why attempting to rationalise Mr Cummings’ actions is a futile exercise.Also on the show: Conservative peer and co-founder of Wome

Jul 22, 2021 • 43:09

The war on woke

The war on woke

Legendary US pollster Frank Lutz joins Christopher Hope to try to bring nuance to the culture wars debate. He tells listeners why he admires man of the moment, Gareth Southgate and claims America is a harbinger of what's to come if Britain let's "woke" take over.Also on the podcast: MP for Guildford Angela Richardson makes her case for an A3 tunnel under Guildford and why it signifies the importance of not robbing the Tory heartlands to pay for the Red Wall. Plus Stephen Kinnock, chair of the la

Jul 15, 2021 • 45:47

The pitfalls of professional politicians

The pitfalls of professional politicians

Former welfare minister Lord David Freud joins Christopher Hope to discuss the benefits of having business leaders in government roles and the pitfalls of professional politicians. Plus International Trade Minister Ranil Jayawardena insists that British farmers won't be hard done by the upcoming deal with Australia, and hints at the importance of thinking green when it comes to trade. And are you still loyal to imperial units? Chris dives into the tale of the metric martyrs, the 5 market traders

Jul 8, 2021 • 42:19

The Battle for Batley

The Battle for Batley

Labour clutch victory from the jaws of defeat by holding Batley and Spen. But what does this mean for both Labour and the Conservatives going forward? Christopher Hope is joined by Telegraph colleagues Camilla Tominey and Tony Diver to weigh up whether the Matt Hancock incident saved Sir Keir Starmer's job, and why the Prime Minister isn't "inoculated from electoral defeat", despite the success of the vaccine rollout. Plus Tory party Co-chair Amanda Milling on why she thinks the by-election wasn

Jul 2, 2021 • 42:16

Independence, the high seas and rebellion

Independence, the high seas and rebellion

To indyref2 or not to indyref2: that is the question Telegraph Political Editor Ben Riley-Smith posed to Michael Gove this week. Ben joins Christopher Hope to discuss how his interview has caused ripples across Scotland, and why he wouldn’t hold his breath over Scottish independence as long as Boris Johnson remains Prime Minister. Plus author of the official history of the Royal Yacht Britannia Richard Johnstone-Bryden presents his passionate defence of launching a replacement flagship, comparin

Jun 24, 2021 • 41:54

Does the Brexit reality live up to the dream?

Does the Brexit reality live up to the dream?

Five years after the vote that sealed our exit from the European Union, we've asked two Brexiteers whether it's lived up to their expectations. Baroness Kate Hoey, formerly one of the few Labour eurosceptic MPs, now a non-affiliated peer, and David Jones MP, deputy chairman of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, join Christopher Hope at Telegraph towers to discuss what still needs be done, particularly in Northern Ireland, which countries might take Britain's lead and leave the EU next, and

Jun 17, 2021 • 32:34

How do we keep Britain great?

How do we keep Britain great?

How can we keep the "Great" in Great Britain? A new book out, written by senior Cabinet office minister Penny Mourdant and her co-author Chris Lewis, looks at how Britain can emerge from the Brexit storm, and here at Chopper's Politics we're taking it as a chance to talk about Britain's place in the world. Christopher Hope is joined by Chair of the House of Commons Defence Select Committee, Tobias Ellwood, and two contributors to the book, Professor Francis Davis, Professor of Religion, Communit

May 24, 2021 • 37:24

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