The Downtown Den Politics Podcast

EP. 137 | Starmer’s Political Tightrope

As the Iranian conflict continues, absolute chaos starts to emerge as far as the economy is concerned. Keir Starmer is still walking the tightrope to deal with a very erratic President Donald Trump, and domestically he is having to face challenges from his own party, including his former deputy leader Angela Rayner. We will be discussing this and much more on this week’s Downtown Den Politics Podcast.

EP.136 | Trump’s Changing Tune

Frank returns from MIPIM 2026 to join Jim and Jo for this week’s Downtown Den Politics Podcast.
They discuss the dramatic shift in messaging from Donald Trump after claiming victory in the conflict with Iran, before urging allies, NATO members and even China to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
They also look at the paperback release of 'Get In' following the recent Mandelson scandal, and discuss the interesting questions surrounding the tax affairs of Richard Tice.

EP.135 | Iran, Trump and the Risk of Escalation

Iran has a new Ayatollah, but is it simply a case of meet the new boss, same as the old boss? With Mojtaba Khamenei stepping into power, questions are growing about whether the US will step back from the conflict or escalate further.
As fuel prices rise and the economic impact of the war begins to bite, what does it mean for global stability and the UK’s political landscape? Jo Phillips, joins Jim Hancock to discuss the implications for Iran, the West and the future of the region.

EP.134 | Iranian crisis and a Green victory

In the latest episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast, Jim Hancock, Jo Phillips and Martin Liptrot discuss the latest Middle East crisis and the implications for Geo-Politics.
And closer to home they discuss the Green Party's vistory in the Gorton and Denton by-election.
Welcome to the latest episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast.

EP.133 | Starmer’s Survival

Keir Starmer survived what felt like a near-death experience for his premiership before hopping on a plane to Germany for the Munich Security Conference.
In this episode, we unpack how the Prime Minister navigated another turbulent week, what saved him politically, and what the fallout could mean in the weeks ahead.
Welcome to the latest episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast.

EP.132 | Can Starmer Survive?

It has been a challenging week for Keir Starmer, with growing pressure surrounding his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson. Can his leadership endure?
Find out in the latest episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast.

EP.131 | By-elections, China Trade Missions and the Epstein Files

All the candidates have been selected for the Gorton and Denton by-election. In this episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast, Frank, Jim and Jo, preview what the final outcome of that particular contest may be.
They also be look at the fallout from The Epstein Files and Keir Starmer's trip to China, whilst telling you all about DIB's latest visit to Parliament and the Hospitality and Visitor Economy campaign.
This is the latest episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast.
To book your tickets for the Hosptality Conference visit: downtowninbusiness.com/ghac
To find out more about DIB's Visitor Economy Campaign CLICK HERE.

EP.130 | Does Starmer Fear a Burnham Challenge?

Plenty to has happened in the world of politics in the last seven days. And with too much to fit into one podcast, this week, Frank McKenna, Jim Hancock and Jo Phillips, focus on the BIG talking points from the past week.
Does Keir Starmer and the Labour Party fear Andy Burnham? Will there be a comeback for Andy Street? Should Andy Street and Ruth Davidson join the Liberal Democrats?
Plenty of theories and topics to discuss.
And they take a look at the continued chaos in America.
This is the latest episode of the Downtown Den Politics Podcast.