43. HS2 and Tony Blair

43. HS2 and Tony Blair

HS2 was supposed to transform Britain's rail network. Instead, it has become a symbol of delay, spiralling costs, and a state that struggles to deliver major projects. In this episode, Sebastian and Hilary examine what went wrong with HS2, from its original vision to its current reality. They discuss why infrastructure projects cost so much in Britain, whether the country can still build ambitious projects, and what a better long-term vision for rail might look like. They also analyse Tony Blair's recent essay on the "radical centre", the reaction it provoked, and what the debate reveals about growth, democracy, expertise, and political leadership. Can Britain still think big, build big, and govern effectively? Or are our problems deeper than any single railway line? Recommendations: Joshi Hermann on Andy Burnham [https://manchestermill.co.uk/stop-looking-for-burnhamism-in-six-years-ive-never-found-it/] Check out the SDP website or get in touch: www.sdp.org.uk hilary.salt@sdp.org.uk sebastian.moore@sdp.org.uk

42. Vistry Problems and Makerfield

Hilary Salt and Sebastian Moore explore the current political landscape in the UK and ask whether social democracy is needed now more than ever. Each week, they will look at important stories, attempt to offer solutions to the many crises, and share their suggestions for books, films, and events that have impacted their lives. Check out the SDP website or get in touch: www.sdp.org.uk hilary.salt@sdp.org.uk sebastian.moore@sdp.org.uk

41. Local Elections and Greggs

Hilary Salt and Sebastian Moore explore the current political landscape in the UK and ask whether social democracy is needed now more than ever. Each week, they will look at important stories, attempt to offer solutions to the many crises, and share their suggestions for books, films, and events that have impacted their lives.

40. PSPOs and Citizens' Assemblies

Hilary and Sebastian explore the rise of Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) and whether banning everyday behaviours undermines community responsibility, before diving into the pros and cons of citizens’ assemblies and their role in modern politics. Recommendations:The End of Politicians - Brett Hennig [https://www.abebooks.co.uk/9781911586104/End-Politicians-Time-Real-Democracy-1911586106/plp] Check out the SDP website or get in touch: www.sdp.org.uk hilary.salt@sdp.org.uk sebastian.moore@sdp.org.uk

39. Green Policies and Maternity Care

Hilary and Sebastian discuss the Green Party's attempt to soften their controversial policies and Reform’s “vibes over detail” approach. What are voters really responding to on the doorstep? How can parties adapt as they chase mainstream appeal? They also take a serious look at maternity care in the UK, breaking down the causes behind maternal deaths and what needs to change to improve outcomes. Recommendations: Bricking It - Charlie Winstanley [https://policy.bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/bricking-it] Check out the SDP website or get in touch: www.sdp.org.uk hilary.salt@sdp.org.uk sebastian.moore@sdp.org.uk