Afternoon Empire with Ian Collins

Is this government the enemy of working people? As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, anger is growing over plans that could see middle-income households footing the bill for targeted energy support. With Rachel Reeves’ proposed energy bailout focused on those claiming benefits, critics warn of a widening divide between working families and state support. Former Deputy Speaker Nigel Evans joins to discuss whether Labour’s economic approach is punishing the very people it claims to represent.We also examine the growing economic fallout from the Iran war, with warnings that food prices could surge by over 8% if disruption continues, adding further pressure to household budgets already stretched by energy costs and inflation.Author Joanna Williams discusses the broader cultural and political direction of the country, including new council-led initiatives aimed at improving safety for women and girls and what they say about priorities in modern Britain.And former Army colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon assesses the latest developments in the Middle East, as Donald Trump pushes for a potential ceasefire with Iran, raising questions about global stability, British security, and whether the UK is prepared for further escalation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Britain safe? Fears over national security are growing following reports of a potential Iranian sleeper cell operating in the UK, raising urgent questions about extremism, intelligence failures and the country’s ability to respond to emerging threats. Barak Seener from the Henry Jackson Society assesses the risk of sleeper cells, hostile state activity and what it means for Britain’s internal security.Investigative journalist David Shipley joins to discuss the latest on the small boats crisis, as the UK’s migrant deal with France is delayed amid demands for tougher terms and how migration policy intersects with wider national security concerns.We also examine the escalating energy crisis, with warnings Britain is becoming increasingly reliant on foreign gas following North Sea shutdowns. Energy analyst Kathryn Porter reacts to the political battle over Net Zero, as Ed Miliband faces accusations of “fanaticism” and pressure grows to ramp up domestic oil and gas production.And with Donald Trump weighing in on the Iran conflict and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, we ask what it all means for UK security, energy prices and global stability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should public prayer be banned in Britain? A fierce debate has erupted over religion, free expression and public space after calls to restrict public prayer sparked political backlash. Theologian Theo Hobson and writer Jonathan Sacerdoti debate whether public displays of religion strengthen community life - or risk deepening division.The row comes as Kemi Badenoch accuses Keir Starmer of pandering for political support, while Nigel Farage faces criticism over calls to ban Muslim public prayer - raising wider questions about religious freedom, integration and British values.We also look at the growing political turmoil inside Labour, with warnings of a potential civil war over migration policy and fears the party could suffer heavy losses at upcoming elections. Former Labour adviser Kevin Meagher and commentator Benedict Spence discuss whether Starmer is losing control, amid ongoing controversy over small boat crossings, asylum policy and the UK’s future relationship with Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is technology making Britain safer or creating a surveillance state? As the government rolls out a major expansion of GPS tagging and live monitoring for offenders, including domestic abusers and violent criminals, we ask where the line is between public safety and personal privacy. Former Met Police detective Peter Bleksley and freedom campaigner Montgomery Toms debate whether increased surveillance is the answer to rising crime or a step too far for civil liberties.We also examine the latest immigration row after Keir Starmer signals a potential migrant U-turn under pressure from Angela Rayner, alongside controversial deportation cases raising questions about the UK’s border system and legal framework. Tom Jones from The Critic reacts.And we look at the growing political push to rethink Brexit, as figures including Rachel Reeves and Sadiq Khan suggest closer ties with the European Union, while the Green Party raises the prospect of rejoining altogether. Former MEP David Bannerman gives his view on whether Britain is drifting back toward Europe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Concerns about extremism, integration and social cohesion are back in focus as new polling suggests British Muslims are significantly more likely than the general public to hold favourable views of the Iranian regime, alongside more hostile attitudes towards the US and Israel. Dr Rakib Ehsan from the Policy Exchange joins to unpack what this means for community relations, foreign policy attitudes and national security in Britain as debate grows over antisemitism, radicalisation and recent court rulings linked to support for Hamas.We also look at the political pressure building on Keir Starmer, with Angela Rayner warning Labour is running out of time. James Heale, Deputy Political Editor at The Spectator, discusses growing divisions within the party, immigration tensions and whether Starmer’s leadership is entering a critical phase.And broadcaster Clare Muldoon reacts to Scotland’s decision to reject assisted dying legislation, examining what it means for the wider UK debate on end-of-life care, ethics and public opinion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should Keir Starmer assist the Americans? With tensions escalating in the Iran conflict and the strategic Strait of Hormuz under threat, pressure is mounting on Britain to support the United States militarily. Donald Trump has criticised Keir Starmer for refusing to join operations to secure the Gulf shipping lane, raising serious questions about the UK–US alliance, NATO cooperation and Britain’s role in global security. Former NATO and Royal Navy commander Chris Parry assesses the military reality and what British involvement could look like.We also examine the growing political battle over UK energy bills and the cost-of-living crisis. Robert Jenrick, Reform’s shadow chancellor, outlines plans to scrap VAT and green levies on energy bills, arguing it could save households at least £200 a year.And Professor David Nutt joins the programme to challenge claims that medical cannabis harms mental health, arguing new research ignores two decades of evidence and misrepresents the debate around cannabis policy, mental health and medical treatment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you believe Keir Starmer has Britain’s back? As political pressure builds on the Prime Minister, we examine whether the government is showing strong leadership at home and abroad.Writer and broadcaster Emma Trimble and Jonathan Gullis debate the fallout from the controversial Al-Quds Day march in London, where protesters were filmed praising Ali Khamenei and chanting against Benjamin Netanyahu, raising questions about extremism, policing and Britain’s response.We also look at the growing political row over energy and the cost of living as Ed Miliband hints at a possible fuel duty U-turn amid rising economic pressure.Plus, Maurice Cousins from Net Zero Watch discusses the future of Net Zero policy, energy prices and whether Britain’s climate strategy is making the cost-of-living crisis worse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do we kickstart the UK economy? With growth stalling and fresh figures showing Britain struggling to gain momentum, questions are growing about whether the government has a credible plan to get the economy moving again.Economist Paul Johnson joins to break down the latest UK GDP figures, why growth has slowed, and what policies could realistically boost productivity, investment and wages.Campaign coordinator Conor O’Shea from Cost of Living Action discusses the pressure households are facing as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite.And Dan Hodges reacts to the continuing political fallout from the Peter Mandelson controversy and what it means for Keir Starmer, Labour’s messaging, and the wider political debate about economic leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How much longer can Keir Starmer survive? Pressure is mounting on the Prime Minister as new reports claim Keir Starmer ignored warnings from senior aides about the reputational risks surrounding Peter Mandelson and his links to Jeffrey Epstein. With the Mandelson controversy refusing to fade, Labour councillor Sebastian Salek and former Brexit Party press chief Liam Deacon debate whether Starmer’s leadership is now in serious danger.Author and Spectator writer Joanna Williams joins to discuss the growing debate over mental health sick notes, after hundreds of GPs said they have never refused one, raising questions about Britain’s welfare system, workplace culture and long-term economic impact.And energy markets expert Herman Wang from S&P Global explains why the UK is releasing emergency oil reserves, what it means for energy prices, and whether Britain is prepared for further shocks to global energy supply. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Would you ever trust a digital ID? The government’s plans for a UK digital identity system are under renewed scrutiny amid warnings about privacy, surveillance and the power of the state. As Keir Starmer reportedly considers changes to digital ID proposals over privacy concerns, journalist and author Alex Klaushofer and Alexander Iosad from the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change debate whether digital ID could modernise government services or create a dangerous new level of state control.We also examine the growing free speech row over Islamophobia laws after warnings that Labour’s proposed definition of anti-Muslim hostility could lead to self-censorship in schools, universities and public life. Andrew Gilligan, senior fellow at Policy Exchange, reacts to claims that children’s drawings could be considered offensive under religious guidelines and what the legal challenge to the government’s guidance could mean for free expression.Plus, the political fallout from the Iran conflict continues, with the Home Secretary banning a pro-Iran march in London and MPs calling for tougher extremism laws targeting protest groups. And Reem Ibrahim discusses the latest developments surrounding the Peter Mandelson files and what they could mean for Westminster. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Islamophobia: is it a backdoor to blasphemy laws? The government’s new definition of anti-Muslim hatred, and the appointment of an “anti-Muslim hostility” tsar, has reignited a fierce debate about free speech, religion and the limits of criticism in Britain. Connie Shaw from the Free Speech Union joins to discuss whether the move risks chilling open debate, as schools are urged to monitor anti-Muslim hostility and ministers insist the policy will still protect freedom of expression.We also examine the escalating Iran war and Britain’s role in the conflict. Defence analyst Simon Diggins reacts to reports of major airstrikes on Tehran, growing US pressure, and criticism of Keir Starmer over the speed of the UK’s military response as HMS Dragon prepares to deploy to Cyprus.And Philip Kiszely of the New Culture Forum discusses the continued push for corporate diversity targets, asking whether DEI policies are reshaping British business and culture, and whether companies are under growing pressure to meet ideological benchmarks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can the UK ensure energy security as war in the Middle East threatens global oil supplies? With crude prices surging toward $100 a barrel and fears growing over a potential battle for the Strait of Hormuz, we examine whether Britain is prepared for a global energy shock.Former Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe OBE explains what a conflict in the Gulf could mean for global shipping lanes, the Royal Navy, and Britain’s ability to protect energy supplies. Gawain Towler, board member of Reform UK, reacts to the political fallout as Keir Starmer reportedly speaks with Donald Trump amid rising energy prices and speculation ministers could freeze household energy bills.Investigative journalist David Shipley joins to discuss new government plans to tackle extremism in universities and the charity sector, and what the measures could mean for free speech and national security.And Shiva Mahbobi, a former Iranian political prisoner, gives insight into the situation inside Iran following the emergence of a new Ayatollah, and what it could mean for the regime, the Iranian people, and the future of the conflict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As tensions with Iran escalate and the transatlantic alliance shows signs of strain, questions are growing over Britain’s global standing. With criticism mounting from Washington and concerns about the UK’s military readiness, is the country losing influence among its allies?Columnist David Wooding joins to discuss the political fallout after Donald Trump’s latest attacks on Sir Keir Starmer and claims Britain is failing to project strength internationally.Former US Army Europe commander General (Ret.) Ben Hodges gives his view on Britain’s military posture and whether the UK still carries weight in global security.Plus, former Trump National Security Adviser and ex-US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton joins to discuss the Iran confrontation, America’s expectations of its allies, and whether the UK is still seen as a reliable partner on the world stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s role in the escalating Iran conflict is under intense scrutiny. Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith and former Shadow Attorney General Sir Bill Cash debate whether the UK should be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the US and Israel, or holding back, as reports suggest Middle East allies feel Britain has “failed” them and Cabinet divisions emerge over Donald Trump’s war strategy.Former Home Office minister Norman Baker reacts to Keir Starmer’s latest speech on Iran and what it signals about Britain’s foreign policy direction, military involvement and the future of the UK’s role on the global stage.The programme also examines the government’s tightening migration stance: failed asylum seeker families being offered up to £40,000 to leave the UK, new plans to deport foreign criminals from taxpayer-funded hotels, and proposals that migrants must speak A-level standard English before settling permanently in Britain. Former government adviser James Price discusses whether tougher immigration policies and a potential Left-wing alliance against Reform could reshape British politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who would best lead Britain through war? We debate the leadership question dominating UK politics as Keir Starmer faces mounting criticism from allies and opponents alike, and even jibes from Donald Trump comparing him unfavourably to Churchill.Joining us: Katy Balls, Patrick Cockburn, Daniel Hannan, and Natasha Hausdorff.We discuss the UK’s war readiness, the future of the UK-US special relationship, rising tensions in the Middle East, and Iran’s claim of control over the Strait of Hormuz, a development that could have huge consequences for global security, energy markets, and Britain’s role on the world stage.Expect sharp analysis on UK defence, global conflict risk, Iran tensions, Trump vs Starmer, and Britain’s military leadership in a potential war scenario. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Iran war, UK foreign policy, and the risk of World War 3. Is Britain on the brink of a major Middle East conflict? As tensions rise between Iran, Israel and the United States, pressure is mounting on Keir Starmer over whether the UK should join military action. After criticism from Donald Trump, we break down the political fallout, the security risks, and what this means for Britain, NATO and global stability.Former Conservative MP and military expert Dr Bob Seely explains the military reality behind the Iran crisis, US strikes on Iran, and whether escalation in the Middle East could trigger a wider global conflict. We’re also joined by Urban Coningham from the Royal United Services Institute and journalist Emily Schrader to analyse Iran’s regime, regional tensions, and the geopolitical stakes for the UK, Europe and the West.Plus, investigative journalist David Collier discusses the growing controversy on UK campuses following reactions linked to Ali Khamenei, and the wider debate around extremism, free speech, universities, and British politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should the UK get involved in Iran? That’s the question dominating the latest episode as tensions in the Middle East escalate following reports of British backing for military action and suspected Iranian involvement in attacks near a RAF base in Cyprus.Security and intelligence expert Anthony Glees joins the show to assess the risks of escalation and what UK involvement could realistically look like. Anti-regime Iranian journalist Niyak Ghorbani explains how the situation is being viewed by Iranians inside and outside the country, and whether pressure on the regime is growing.Journalist and broadcaster Peter Oborne discusses the political and media reaction in Britain, including the debate over whether the UK should support or distance itself from any widening conflict.And Iranian-British human rights activist Lily Moo gives a perspective on the human rights implications, what ordinary Iranians are facing, and what role the UK should play moving forward.We break down the latest developments, the geopolitical stakes, and the big question: should Britain get involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Annunziata Rees-Mogg joins to discuss the surge in Channel crossings after 545 migrants arrived in a single day, the busiest of the year so far, alongside mounting criticism of the UK’s deal with France and reports that small-boat arrivals are being processed in as little as 30 minutes. Is the government losing control of the border, and what should happen next?On the NHS, former Health Minister Steve Brine and Dr Tony O’Sullivan debate claims that doubling funding has failed to improve outcomes, amid fresh warnings about waste and long-term pressures on the health service.And Matt Ridley looks at the growing backlash over Net Zero and energy costs, as households are told bills would fall but many say they’re still paying more, raising questions about the direction of Britain’s energy policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Twyman (Founder of DeltaPoll) and Tatton Spiller (Founder of Simple Politics) join the show as Westminster faces a mounting political storm around Sir Keir Starmer and the fallout from the Peter Mandelson row. With reports warning of a potential constitutional showdown over the handling of sensitive files linked to the Epstein case, we ask whether this could become the biggest test of Starmer’s leadership yet.Plus, former Home Office Minister Norman Baker reacts to fresh controversy over immigration after proposals linked to Green Party leadership hopeful Zack Polanski sparked outrage, including claims illegal migrants could be granted amnesty, housing and financial support. It comes as new reports suggest French authorities are failing to stop a large share of small boats crossing the Channel, fuelling renewed criticism of the UK–France migration deal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We ask whether anyone can still trust Labour as the fallout from the Peter Mandelson story continues to dominate Westminster. After being released on bail following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct, the pressure on the government is growing - and fresh questions are being raised about transparency and standards in public life. Clark Vasey (Director, Blue Collar Conservatism) and Daniel Bruce (Chief Executive, Transparency International UK) join the conversation.We also look at law and order and the politics of public safety after calls from Zia Yusuf and Reform UK to ban face coverings such as burqas and hoods in public spaces. Former police officer Graham Wettone gives his perspective on whether tougher measures would actually improve safety.And we examine the wider failures in the mental health and justice system following the revelations surrounding the Nottingham attacks case. Julian Hendy, founder of Hundred Families, discusses what needs to change after it emerged the killer had previously been known to services. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.