UK ex-leader Blair rows back climate comments after backlash
Tony Blair had described Britain’s fossil fuel phase out as “doomed.”
Tony Blair
Tony Blair targets Ed Miliband
The morning political podcast, which gives you all you need for the day ahead in 20 minutes, with Sky News’ Sam Coates and Politico’s Anne McElvoy. Back on British soil, Anne joins Sam to talk about Trump’s 100 days in office and whether the President is really in a tough spot. And there are reports […]
How idea of stripping citizenship for crimes spread across Europe
Recent proposals put forward in countries such as Sweden, Finland and Germany reflect wider shift, say analystsThe plans, hatched by Sweden’s rightwing government with support of its far-right backers, made waves around the world. Politicians said they…
Why the next pope may be a ‘break’ from the past
As Catholics gather in Rome to mourn Pope Francis, those hoping to succeed him are preparing to engage in one of the world’s oldest and most intriguing electoral contests. This week’s guest knows the inner workings of the Vatican and the key players involved as cardinals gather for the next conclave. Host Anne McElvoy talks […]
Fear of Farage risks leaving Labour’s left flank unguarded
The Green Party hopes to scoop up disillusioned former Labour voters in next month’s regional elections.
Blair to Starmer: Don’t hit back at Trump’s tariffs
Former prime minister says it is not “in the U.K.’s best interest to retaliate” and praises current leader’s “cool heads” approach.
UK plans fresh round of talks to take sting out of AI copyright proposals
Ministers hope they can find a technical solution that keeps everyone happy.
The Starmer and Reeves double act is about to be tested
A strong, if shallow, partnership at the top has defined Labour in office. Can it hold when the going gets tough?
UK chancellor will double down despite growing opposition
It’s a fiscal gamble, but for now, Reeves will continue to argue there’s no other way than to take the bet she’s making.
The Brief – Blairmania’s Brussels afterlife
At a European Parliament event to promote Tony Blair’s latest book, EU lawmakers fawned over Britain’s former prime minister.
Tony Blair’s right-hand man goes into battle for Ukraine
Jonathan Powell played a crucial role in securing peace in Northern Ireland — and his much-hyped skills as a negotiator are being put to the test again.
7 times British prime ministers raged against the civil service machine
Keir Starmer’s not the only one to take potshots at government officials.
How Starmer saved Ukraine’s ceasefire as Trump and Zelenskyy raged
The U.K. prime minister and his top security adviser worked intensively to rescue the broken relationship between Kyiv and Washington, drafting a truce plan that might one day pave the way for peace.
Inside COBRA
Have you ever wondered about COBRA? Not the snake or the yoga pose — but Cabinet Office Briefing Room A, the place at the heart of Whitehall where a highly sensitive, critical government committee meets when a crisis hits the U.K. This week, host Patrick Baker takes you inside these mysterious meetings to find out […]
Starmer looks to Germany and Australia for advice — on what not to do
Bruising times for center-left parties have U.K. Labour looking abroad for inspiration.
How Keir Starmer buttered up Donald Trump
Inside the months of quiet, grinding preparation that went into the British prime minister’s all-smiles first trip to the Trump White House — and why it could all still unravel.
5 awkward encounters between UK prime ministers and US presidents
Keir Starmer and Donald Trump will likely be all smiles during their meeting Thursday — but a frosty encounter between the two nations’ leaders isn’t unusual.
Nigel Farage is surging in Britain’s rust belt — and Labour is panicked
The U.K.’s ruling Labour Party has a 103-year winning streak in Wales, but that could end next May. POLITICO talked to officials, politicians and disillusioned steelworkers to track the rapid rise of Farage’s Reform UK.
British MPs already want a vote on sending troops to Ukraine
Labour MPs — and opposition lawmakers too — are asking for a parliamentary say on any British escalation.
Reynolds hits ‘reset’ on competition
SNEAK PEEK — The government is giving the CMA a ‘reset’. The CMA will try to show it’s got the message. — Peter Kyle explains the U.K.’s AI summit statement snub. — MPs pick up where peers left off on copyright. Good morning and happy Thursday, This is Tom, back home. You can get in touch with […]
Time to sign?
SNEAK PEEK — JD Vance lands in Paris as the U.K. tries to get on message. — Peter Kyle says an AI bill will avoid upsetting voluntary agreement with AI labs. — The U.K.’s own mini-summit kicks off in London. Good morning and happy Tuesday, This is Tom, coming to you from a cold press room in […]
As Trump torches overseas aid, will Britain step up?
Britain used to lead the world on international development. But in the era of right-wing populists, its Labour government is now treading carefully.
Britain ditches AI declaration, pitches for cash
SNEAK PEEK — As the AI Action Summit kicks off, the U.K. is tempted against signing its main declaration. — Peter Kyle takes his investment pitch to Paris. — Back at home, there’s a backlash against the Home Office over encryption. Good Monday morning, This is Tom in Paris. You can get in touch with […]
Suggestions for U.S. success in the Middle East
An aide-mémoire to Secretary of State Marco Rubio from a former adviser to Tony Blair.
How to be a UK Ambassador to the US
POLITICO’s weekly podcast lifting the curtain on how Westminster really works. By PATRICK BAKER Send ideas here | View in your browser Peter Mandelson, the new British ambassador to the United States, has finally taken up the daunting challenge of being the U.K.’s Trump whisperer. And it’s clear the man dubbed the prince of darkness […]
How Peter Mandelson can survive Trump’s Washington
Top tips for Britain’s new ambassador from people who’ve done the job and lived to tell the tale.
Britain led the world on AI safety. Now it’s waiting for Trump.
Labour promised tough new rules for the world’s leading AI developers. But as Trump returns, ministers are thinking again.
How to be a UK Ambassador to the US
Peter Mandelson, the new British ambassador to the United States, has finally taken up the daunting challenge of being the U.K.’s Trump whisperer. And it’s clear the man dubbed the prince of darkness will need to use every trick in his book to ensure the U.K. emerges unscathed – or even, perhaps, benefits – from […]
Tony Blair picks his Labour rising stars
The former U.K. prime minister has quietly been meeting Labour’s new MPs — and he’s not the only Blairite who’s at it.
Why Starmer might need to bring back Blair
Britain’s prime minister is seemingly always overseas, and some allies wish he’d delegate more of the diplomatic grind — just as his predecessor did.
Keir Starmer accused of running a ‘boys’ club’ as three men given key jobs
Departure of outgoing U.K. ambassador to the U.S. Karen Pierce has reignited criticism of the culture at the top of the British government.
Defiant Starmer declares he wants 10 years as UK PM
After Elon Musk’s call for him to be ousted, Britain’s prime minister reveals his thinking on the next election date and vows to complete a full second term in No. 10.
Sanna Marin requests restraining order against 35-year-old man
The former Finnish PM’s filing will be heard by a Helsinki court Friday morning.
Sorry you hated us: 5 grovelling apologies from UK politicians
Taken over as the leader of a wounded political party? Try some self-flagellation.
How to woo Donald Trump: Tips from a diplomacy pro
Tom Fletcher served three U.K. prime ministers — and has plenty of advice for diplomats in the Trump era.
Von der Leyen wins Charlemagne Prize for European unification
European Commission president is rewarded for “her services to the unity of the Member States.”
Starmer banks on AI as UK’s savior as growth agenda falters
Rishi Sunak positioned the U.K. as a world-leader on AI safety. Keir Starmer is adopting a more boosterish stance.
The Guardian view on the Blair-era archives: fateful decisions come in many guises | Editorial
Document releases from 2004 show that the Labour cabinet was deeply divided and badly informed on how to handle migration from EuropeJudgments about Tony Blair’s Labour government tend inevitably to focus on the Iraq war. Iraq was traumatic and definin…
Westminster’s top books of 2024
POLITICO asked politicians and chroniclers of SW1 to tell us the book they most enjoyed reading this year — here are the results, in their own words.
6 times food diplomacy went wrong
From menu complaints to vomiting incidents, some spreads have left hosts — or guests — in a pickle.
Can the UK’s ‘Prince of Darkness’ really become its Trump whisperer?
Some worry that Mandelson will see Trump 2.0 as something to be weathered rather than a revolution in U.S. politics that will have long-lasting ramifications.
Peter Mandelson confirmed as Britain’s next ambassador to the US
Keir Starmer praises incoming ambassador — a former European trade commissioner — for his “unrivalled experience,” as former colleagues rate his chances in Trumpworld.
Ex-Starmer aide Sue Gray gets House of Lords consolation prize
Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff — a Whitehall power-player — caps list of political peerages.
Peter Mandelson will be UK’s next US ambassador
An announcement on the Blair-era heavyweight’s new role is expected from No.10 Downing Street Friday.
Starmer’s bungled reset is fitting way to end 2024
Five months after winning a landslide victory in the U.K. general election, the PM is struggling to find his voice.
UK’s aristocrat lawmakers slam Labour’s ‘class warfare’
Hereditary peers will be booted out of parliament under plans introduced by Keir Starmer’s government.
Staff at Britain’s AI institute in open revolt
Letter expressing no confidence in Alan Turing Institute’s top team comes amid external criticism of the prestigious state-funded body.
Has Syrian rebel leader al-Golani really shaken off his al Qaeda past?
The leopard claims he has changed his spots, but will he bring stability to the devastated nation?
Top Tony Blair aide becomes UK Palestine envoy
Government efficiency guru Michael Barber will take on a new Palestine-facing role.
Bid to crack down on shirkers in UK’s House of Lords
Stricter attendance rules could result in 100 members being booted out of the Lords.
Keir Starmer’s reset, rated
POLITICO rates the prime minister’s six new “milestones” as he tries to drive change — and turn the polls around.
Tony Blair’s ‘Prince of Darkness’ tipped to be UK’s man in DC
Peter Mandelson could be heading Stateside after a long and notorious career in British public life.
Britain’s hunt for a Trump whisperer
The U.K’s center-left government reckons it’s made friends with Donald Trump. Now it just has to keep things that way.
Tories pick first Black woman to lead a major UK political party
Kemi Badenoch will aim to get Britain’s battered Tories — who quietly have a strong record on diverse representation at the top table — back on their feet.
Britain cranks up taxes by £40B and gambles on growth
Labour’s Rachel Reeves signaled that the new British government plans record tax rises on the wealthy and on business.
UK budget: 5 things you need to know as Labour hikes taxes
Big swings from the new chancellor will reshape the British state.
Britain’s heading for a nuclear power crunch. Blame the French.
A once proud fleet of power plants is about to be reduced to one last, lonely nuke.
Trump allies rage at UK Labour help for Kamala Harris. There’s more to come.
Some U.S. progressives see Britain’s Keir Starmer as a lone center-left warrior if Donald Trump wins.
5 things we’ll miss as Britain’s hereditary peers face the chop
From quirky family ties to baffling by-elections, Britain’s soon-to-be-abolished aristocratic lawmakers have been a unique feature of the system.
100 days of Starmer: How Labour’s big win went off the rails
After just a few months in office, the new British government is finding life tough.
Keir Starmer’s reset shows his premiership is already in crisis
Less than 100 days after taking office, the prime minister has already been forced to shake up his team.
UK government hires TikTok comms chief
Appointment of James Lyons may raise eyebrows given TikTok banned on UK government phones.
Gaza likely to get new governing structure in coming year, says Israel’s EU envoy
Haim Regev said his country would “prevail and win” militarily during an exclusive interview with POLITICO, but fretted about Israel’s “legitimacy war” on the global stage.
Tony Blair: Bring in third party to end the war in Gaza
Former British leader supported Israel’s self-defense.
Tony Blair’s tips for a Tory revival
Former Labour prime minister says Conservatives must unite and heed concern over immigration.
Tech policy: 20 people to meet at Tory conference
We break down the 20 figures shaping the Conservatives’ tech policy in opposition.
Keir Starmer’s victory party turns sour
Britain’s new prime minister has suffered a turbulent start to his premiership.
Rachel Reeves is running Britain really
Behind the scenes, decisions on Labour’s agenda are being dictated to a great extent by the Treasury.
Meta’s Nick Clegg tears into Rishi Sunak’s AI doomerism
The Meta exec and former deputy PM said Britain had “wasted a huge amount of time” focusing on the gloomy risks of artificial intelligence.
When UK party conferences go wrong
Despite the best efforts of party bigwigs, Britain’s annual gatherings of political animals frequently descend into chaos.
Are we asking enough hard questions about Ukraine?
When the dust settles, will the West’s media coverage get a passing grade, or will we find, at times, we allowed our sympathy for the Ukrainian cause to overlook matters we shouldn’t?
Are we asking enough hard questions about Ukraine?
When the dust settles, will the West’s media coverage get a passing grade, or will we find, at times, we allowed our sympathy for the Ukrainian cause to overlook matters we shouldn’t?
Tech policy: 20 people to meet at Labour conference
We break down the 20 figures inside and outside government shaping Labour’s tech policy.
Radical left and radical right have become indistinguishable
For as long as the center fails to make its case in a way that galvanizes, there will be many more like Sahra Wagenknecht.
The other European proxy war
Serbia gets pulled — and pulls itself — sharply between East and West. Where it ends up will help decide which Great Power emerges triumphant.
Don’t abolish us, cry Britain’s aristocratic lawmakers
Tory peer slams “high-handed, shoddy” decision to remove Britain’s remaining legislators who inherit their places. But Labour says it’s sorting unfinished business.
UK arms-sale ban won’t make any difference to war, says former Israeli PM
Ehud Olmert tells POLITICO’s Power Play podcast that Israel’s allies should instead focus on lack “of any political horizon or end game strategy” from Benjamin Netanyahu.
David Cameron’s barefoot warrior bids for glory in California
Britain’s disrupter-in-chief and Trump admirer now has his eye on the Golden State’s governor’s mansion.
Kamala Harris campaign told how to win by UK Labour strategist
Deborah Mattinson — a fixture of the U.K. polling scene — will travel to Washington D.C. next week to brief the Harris-Walz team.
Cheer up, Keir! UK’s Starmer told to lighten up
Elected on a landslide two months ago, the new British PM ought to be on top of the world. Instead his glumness is beginning to grate.
Starmer took down Thatcher’s portrait! Here’s what he could hang in its place
New U.K. PM found old U.K. PM’s portrait “unsettling” and asked for it to be taken down.
Putin needs guitar lessons and Trump is ‘f***ing funny’: The political wisdom of Oasis’ Liam and Noel Gallagher
Oasis are getting back together. Good news for music fans, bad news for those hoping the Gallagher brothers might turn their hand to politics.
Can Britain’s Labour Party teach Kamala Harris how to win?
From immigration to housing and confronting the left, new U.K. PM Keir Starmer appears to offer a playbook for victory to the Democrats in the U.S.
The last of the Lords
Britain’s new leader Keir Starmer is determined to reform the archaic House of Lords — but it could come with a hidden price.
Tony Blair’s NHS dream? Fewer GPs, more chatbots
The former U.K. PM wants a new network of super primary care centers serving up to 250,000 patients.
Tony Blair’s AI mania sweeps Britain’s new government
The former PM sees artificial intelligence as a silver bullet for ailing public services, government inefficiency and a stagnant economy. Is he right?
7 times UK politicians’ holidays were totally ruined
Keir Starmer’s just the latest prime minister to kill off his vacation plans.
Migration keeps derailing British leaders
As the dust settles on days of far-right rioting, the issue seems inescapable for Britain’s new leader Keir Starmer.
‘Is that it?’ UK Labour’s cautious entry to government
Few surprises are expected when Keir Starmer sets out his program in the king’s speech.
Trump adviser Fiona Hill to lead UK defense review
Former NATO boss George Robertson will head the project to consider how and when to boost military spending.
It’s worrying to see the prime minister cheerleading for war. Will Ukraine turn into Starmer’s Iraq? | Simon Jenkins
The Nato summit offered a chance to work towards resolution. But instead, Starmer talked about long-range missilesWhen Keir Starmer entered Downing Street, a few foreign events were arranged to glamorise his arrival. He visited a Nato summit and promis…
Britain finally has a female chancellor. It only took 800 years.
Meet Rachel Reeves: the chess-playing former banker who needs to get the U.K. economy rolling.
Labour’s new tribes: 7 gangs to watch in the class of 2024
Hundreds of the party’s brand-new MPs are finding their feet in the British parliament following its landslide election victory.
Starmer praises Abbott and hails diverse Commons in first speech to parliament as PM – UK politics live
Parliament the most diverse by race and gender the country has ever seen, says Starmer, with the largest cohort of LGBT+ MPs in the worldDowning Street has released a full version of what Keir Starmer said in his opening remarks to the metro mayors at…
Tony Blair admits UK will need ‘a little persuading’ to embrace digital ID
The former prime minister’s suggestion is already causing a headache for the new Labour government.
Keir Starmer says he wants a better Brexit trade deal
The new U.K. prime minister has paid his first visit Northern Ireland’s cross-community government in Belfast.
6 things UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer wants to fix in his first month
Britain’s new leader already has an overflowing in-tray.
Britain’s new power list: 12 people you need to know in the UK Labour government
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is now in office. These are the people who really matter in his government.
Can Nigel Farage ride the wave of right-wing populism?
The Reform party’s success in capturing votes in the U.K. general election could only be the start.
The politics of boring: Why Starmer won — and why Biden probably won’t
As the U.S. and U.K. leaders are discovering, dullness can be an electoral asset. Until it’s not.