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Rebels with opposite causes. Former Tory defence adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert don’t see eye to eye — and that’s exactly why it works. Each week they take on the biggest stories in British politics with wit, insight, and the occasional exasperated sigh. With guests from across the spectrum, Political Frenemies is the antidote to establishment podcasts: unfiltered, unpredictable, and proudly independent.
Chris Newton is a PhD military historian and defence analyst. Mathew Hulbert is a former journalist, councillor, and charity chair. Both appear on TV and radio.
Chris Newton is a PhD military historian and defence analyst. Mathew Hulbert is a former journalist, councillor, and charity chair. Both appear on TV and radio.
48 Episodes
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Political Frenemies dives headfirst into Westminster meltdown mode as former Tory adviser Chris Newton, Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert, and academic and ex–Labour adviser Matt Lloyd unpack the explosive fallout from the Mandelson–Epstein scandal. From Mandelson’s association with Epstein to KeirStarmer’s jaw-dropping admission that he knew about it when appointing Mandelson as ambassador, the trio tear into a week of high political drama that culminated in one of the most bruising PMQs in recent memory. Sharp, partisan, and occasionally brutal, the episode closes with the question now hanging over British politics: are we finally watching the beginning of the end for Starmer?Thumbnail Image: Number 10https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Prime_Minister_Keir_Starmer_hosts_a_business_roundtable_(54354501680).jpg
Political Frenemies returns with Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and former Tory adviser Chris Newton joined by Tom Willerton-Gartside, Head of Press at Looking for Growth, for a fast-paced scrap over the week’s biggest political stories. The trio dig into Keir Starmer’s contentious China visit, Suella Braverman’s dramatic defection to Reform UK, the opening skirmishes of the Gorton and Denton by-election, and Labour’s proposed police reforms—serving up sharp analysis, partisan tension, and just enough common ground to keep things interesting.Thumbnail Image: Number 10https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Prime_Minister_Keir_Starmer_visits_China_(55066780794).jpg
Old rivalries, new rows, and plenty of political mischief: Political Frenemies is back with former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert, joined once again by Yellow Rebel host Andy Chandler, to tear into another week of chaotic politics. From Keir Starmer’s increasingly spiky clashes with Donald Trump over Greenland, Chagos, and Afghanistan, to the fallout from Andrew Gwynne’s resignation and the tantalising question of whether Andy Burnham would fancy a by-election comeback, nothing is off limits. Throw in postponed local elections and fresh right-wing turbulence as Robert Jenrick stirs controversy from his new home in Reform UK, and you’ve got an episode packed with sharp takes, ideological sparring, and the kind of uncomfortable agreements only true frenemies can deliver.
Political Frenemies is back with sparks flying as Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and former Tory adviser Chris Newton welcome once again Tory councillor and campaigner Matthew Goodwin-Freeman for a fast-paced dive into Westminster chaos and local fallout. The trio react to Robert Jenrick’s jaw-dropping defection to Reform UK, spar over Labour’s abrupt U-turn on digital ID, and unpack reports of delayed local council elections that could reshape the political map. Add in the Liberal Democrats’ latest announcement on A&E, and you’ve got a sharp, combative, and often funny clash of perspectives that cuts through the spin and gets to the political fault lines of the week.
Political Frenemies kicks off 2026 with a bang as former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert welcome their first guest of the year, Tory councillor Zak Wagman, for a no-holds-barred take on a week of political shockwaves. From Britain’s jittery response to Donald Trump’s intervention in Venezuela and his threats over Greenland, to Keir Starmer’s decision to commit UK troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, the trio spar over what it all means for Britain’s role in the world. Add in government threats to ban X and Reform UK’s choice of Laila Cunningham as their London mayoral candidate, and you’ve got sharp analysis, partisan fire, and the kind of cross-party clash that makes Political Frenemies essential listening.Thumbnail Image: The White House
It’s baubles at dawn on Political Frenemies as Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and former Tory adviser Chris Newton host the Christmas Snowflake Party special —a gloriously chaotic festive roundup joined by fan favourites Tory councillor Matthew Goodwin-Freeman, Lib Dem YouTuber Andy Chandler, and Green activist Daniel Laycock. The gang kick off by unwrapping the week’s political news, including the latest resident doctors’ strike, before settling in for a sharp, funny, and occasionally spiky review of the political year across Labour, Reform UK, the Conservatives, Lib Dems, the Greens, and the devolved nations. With partisan cheer, cross-party banter, and a Christmas quiz to test loyalties and memories alike, this is Political Frenemies at its most indulgent, irreverent, and end-of-year reflective.Thumbnail Background Image: Simon Dawson / Number 10https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?search=Downing+Street+christmas&title=Special%3AMediaSearch&type=image
In this week’s episode of Political Frenemies, former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert are reunited with their occasional Green firebrand Daniel Laycock for a lively end-of-year round-up. The trio catch up with Daniel on the latest twists inside the Greens before diving into Westminster’s big stories: the Commons vote on a UK–EU customs union, a fresh batch of political peers, and Reform UK becoming the country’s largest party by membership. Mathew caps things off with his take on the season’s headline magazine interviews—making for a sharp, witty, and wonderfully irreverent conversation across the political spectrum.Thumbnail Image: Lauren Hurley / Number 10https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Prime_Minister_Keir_Starmer_attends_G20_Summit_in_South_Africa_(54938550946).jpg
This week on Political Frenemies, Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert, former Tory adviser Chris Newton, and Yellow Rebel host Andy Chandler unpack Mathew’s latest campaigning adventures — including his chance encounter with Health Secretary Wes Streeting. The trio also explore whether Labour’s proposals to slash jury trials and postpone mayoral elections hint at a drift toward illiberalism, before turning to Nigel Farage’s alleged comments about a possible pact with the Tories, and Daisy Cooper’s appearance on BBC Question Time.
In this week’s episode of Political Frenemies, former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert are joined by political commentator – and freshly elected Reform UK councillor – Russell Quirk. The trio dig into the Russell’s election as councillor, trade sharp insights on the fallout from this week’s Budget, and unpack what it all means for Rachel Reeves and the Labour government. Expect banter, bold takes, and a spirited clash of perspectives you won’t hear anywhere else.Thumbnail Image: Simon Dawson / Number 10https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chancellor_Rachel_Reeves_prepares_to_deliver_the_Budget_(54947859269).jpg
Political Frenemies is back with Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and former Tory adviser Chris Newton—this time joined once again by Conservative councillor and campaigner Matthew Goodwin-Freeman—for a lively, cross-party clash of ideas. In this episode, the trio dive into Shabana Mahmood’s headline-grabbing immigration and asylum reforms, unpack the explosive findings of the new Covid-19 inquiry report, debate fresh worries about the UK’s military preparedness, and react to the sentencing of Nathan Gill. Expect sharp disagreements, unexpected alliances, and plenty of wit as Britain’s political divides get the friendliest possible airing.CHECK OUT Matthew Goodwin-Freeman's YouTube channel.www.youtube.com/@MGoodwinFreeman.CHECK OUT Chris' appearance on Matthew Goodwin-Freeman's show.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeu_npREXVEBUY Matthew Goodwin-Freeman's book: 'A Blueprint'.https://www.matthewgoodwinfreeman.uk/bookTwitter/X: @PolFrenemiesThumbnail Image: Andy Taylor/Home Officehttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Home_Secretary_Shabana_Mahmood_addresses_Home_Office_(54795840793).jpg
Political Frenemies returns with sparks flying as former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert team up once again—this time joined by political scientist and historian Dr George Aylett—to dissect one of the most chaotic weeks in British politics. From the rumours of a Labour coup plot to two senior BBC resignations amid a brewing row with Donald Trump, the trio pull no punches. Add in yet another junior doctors’ strike and the Lib Dems’ VAT announcement, and you’ve got a fast-paced, sharp-tongued episode where frenemies clash, debate, and occasionally agree their way through the madness.Thumbnail Image: Department for Science, Innovation, and Technologyhttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Secretary_of_State_for_Science,_Innovation_and_Technology_attends_the_UK_International_Investment_Summit_at_Guildhall_(54069588623).jpg
In this episode of Political Frenemies, Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert, former Tory adviser Chris Newton, and researcher-campaigner Tom Willerton-Gartside dive into a whirlwind week in politics — from David Lammy’s embattled response to the prisoner release fiasco to Rachel Reeves’ and Nigel Farage’s speeches on the economy. The trio tackle the charged atmosphere and protests at Villa Park during the Aston Villa vs. Maccabi Tel Aviv match, ask whether the British left can take inspiration from Zohran Mamdani’s grassroots success, and round things off with thoughtful reflections on Remembrance Sunday. Spirited, sharp, and surprisingly good-natured — it’s politics without the echo chamber.Thumbnail Image: Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Officehttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2025_07_22_Foreign_Secretary_David_Lammy_at_NCA,_London,_with_DG_Rob_Jones_(54670654192).jpgTwitter/X: @PolFrenemies
In this anniversary episode of Political Frenemies, former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert mark one year of spirited debate, unexpected agreement, and plenty of laughs. The pair dive into a packed political week — from the stripping of former Prince Andrew’s titles and Rachel Reeves’ rent row to the Greens’ surprise surge and the Lib Dems’ latest trans quota controversy. Plus, a quick apology for the sound quality — a few technical gremlins joined the party — but the conversation is as sharp (and friendly) as ever!Thumbnail Image: Kirsty O'Connor/HM Treasuryhttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:UK-FR_Business_Rountable_2025-07-09-14-08.jpg
In this episode of Political Frenemies, Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and ex-Tory adviser Chris Newton are joined by the host of the Yellow Rebel YouTube channel - Andy Chandler. They dive into a whirlwind week in UK politics. From the political reaction to the Prince Andrew allegations and the government’s troubled grooming gang inquiry, to Plaid Cymru’s breakthrough in Caerphilly and a string of Lib Dem local by-election wins, the trio bring sharp analysis, good humour, and the occasional friendly jab. It’s thoughtful, provocative, and lively— politics as only frenemies can do it.CHECK OUT Episode 1 of Mathew and Andy's new podcast, Mathew & Andy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJpo6pnzY44CHECK OUT Andy's channel, The Yellow Rebel:https://www.youtube.com/@TheYellowRebel Thumbnail Image: Northern Ireland Office.https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Prince_Andrew,_Duke_of_York_in_Northern_Ireland_2018.png
In this week’s Political Frenemies, former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert are joined by returning guest Tory commentator Matthew Goodwin-Freeman for a lively and unfiltered roundtable on the week’s political fireworks. The trio unpack the government’s troubles after the China spy case collapse, ask whether Nigel Farage’s influence has left lasting scars on Britain’s economy, and assess Ed Davey’s big energy speech. The trio also debate the political fallout from the controversial Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban decision at Aston Villa. Expect sharp takes, surprising agreements, and the kind of cross-party banter only true political frenemies can deliver.BUY Mathew Goodwin-Freeman's book, 'A Blueprint'.https://www.matthewgoodwinfreeman.uk/bookBUY Iain Dale's NEW book: 'British By-Elections, 1769-2025' (contains a chapter by Mathew Hulbert!) https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/british-by-electionsThumbnail Image: Number 10.
In this week’s Political Frenemies, Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and former Tory adviser Chris Newton are joined by Scottish Lib Dem Social Security Spokesperson and Lib Dem Voice editor Caron Lindsay for a sharp, witty, and surprisingly good-natured clash of perspectives. The trio unpack the drama of the Tory Party Conference — including Kemi Badenoch’s headline-grabbing speech — debate where the Liberal Democrats should go next, and ask whether the Greens’ surge in membership signals a shifting political landscape. They also delve into the fallout from the collapse of the China spy case and what it means for Keir Starmer’s Labour government. Expect lively disagreement, unexpected common ground, and plenty of political insight.BUY Iain Dale's NEW book: 'British By-Elections, 1769-2025' (contains a chapter by Mathew Hulbert!) https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/british-by-elections Thumbnail Image: Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Streethttps://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kemi_Badenoch_official_Cabinet_Portrait;_2022.jpg
In this episode of Political Frenemies, former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert are joined by returning occasional Green contributor Daniel Laycock for a packed and thought-provoking discussion. The trio reflect on the tragic terror attack at a Manchester synagogue, dissect Labour’s rhetoric at its conference, and weigh up the messages coming out of the Green Party gathering. Mathew also takes a moment to unpack the latest Lib Dem reshuffle and also gives an exclusive sneak peek at his chapter in Iain Dale’s new book British By-elections, 1769–2025. The conversation lastly turns to previewing the upcoming Conservative Party conference. It’s a blend of sharp analysis, candid insight, and cross-party banter you won’t want to miss.BUY Iain Dale's NEW book: 'British By-Elections, 1769-2025' (contains a chapter by Mathew Hulbert!) https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/british-by-elections Thumbnail Image: David Atkins
On this episode of Political Frenemies, Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert and former Tory adviser Chris Newton are joined by special guest Kevin Foster, former Conservative MP and minister, for a lively and candid conversation. From inside stories of ministerial life to frank reflections on the state of today’s Tory Party, the trio pull no punches. They take stock of the Lib Dem conference, pick apart Reform’s controversial immigration plans, and debate Labour’s proposal for a digital ID scheme—all with the trademark mix of insight, humour, and good-natured sparring that makes Political Frenemies essential listening for political junkies.Thumbnail Image: UK Parliament
In this episode of Political Frenemies, former Tory adviser Chris Newton and Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert are joined by returning guest Peter Cardwell, former Tory Special Adviser and Talk presenter, to delve into the turbulent world of British politics. Cardwell discusses his new book Political Animals, before the trio turn to Donald Trump’s state visit, Keir Starmer’s mounting troubles, the latest defections to Reform UK, and the growing row within Your Party. With sharp insights and lively exchanges across party lines, the conversation is rounded off with Hulbert’s preview of the upcoming Liberal Democrat conference.BUY Peter Cardwell's NEW book 'Political Animals'.https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/political-animals-peter-cardwellBUY Iain Dale's NEW book: 'British By-Elections, 1769-2025' (contains a chapter by Mathew Hulbert!) https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/british-by-elections Thumbnail Background Image: Number 10.https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Prime_Minister_Keir_Starmer_meets_US_President_Donald_Trump_(54795831485).jpg
Lib Dem activist Mathew Hulbert, former Tory adviser Chris Newton, and returning guest Tory campaigner Matthew Goodwin-Freeman trade perspectives on the week’s biggest stories. In this episode, they dissect the shock resignation of Peter Mandelson, weigh up the contenders in Labour’s deputy leadership race, and unpack the British reaction to the assassination of US conservative figure Charlie Kirk. With sharp disagreements, surprising points of consensus, and a good dose of humour, the trio offers listeners a candid, cross-party take on politics at its most unpredictable.BUY Mathew Goodwin-Freeman's book, 'A Blueprint'.https://www.matthewgoodwinfreeman.uk/bookThumbnail Image: FCDO https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mandelson_at_the_FCDO_2025-02-08-10-17-A.jpg
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