Podcasts

In this episode of Policy Matters, hosts Franz Buscha and Matt Dickson are joined by Steve Machin, Professor of Economics at the London School of Economics, and a leading expert in the economics of crime. We might not initially think that economists have much to say on crime and policing, but Steve explains how the choice to commit crime can be thought of like any other choice that involves weighing up the costs and benefits. As such, when the prices of goods on the black market change or the chances of being caught change there is a response in crime rates. Similarly, when individuals are made to stay in school longer, this leads to a reduction in crime as those with more education can earn more in the labour market and so crime is less attractive. Steve goes on to highlight a number of ways in which the economics of crime research has led to changes in policy that have had positive results for society.

Adam talks to Mark Stephen Pooler a professional public speaker and coach who became a drug addict in his teenage years as a result of bullying throughout his childhood. Mark shares how a near death experience when he was clinically dead for a few minutes became the wake up call he needed to pursue a life on stage in the industry of professional speaking. Mark shares how people can fight through nerves and find their voice and why public speaking is an important skill for people from all backgrounds.

How can we solve the housing crisis? Why is there such a massive supply-side problem? What is the greenbelt, and how come it's not all as green as you might think? FREER Director Rebecca Lowe and FREER Co-Chairs Lee Rowley MP and Luke Graham MP are joined by Simon Clarke MP to discuss Simon's recent FREER paper, 'Housing Addressed', which includes innovative proposals that could free up land for 1.5 million new homes across England, while also ensuring better protections for the environment.

Alistair Gilfillan has recently been awarded the title ‘UK Young Banker Of The Year’, thanks to his innovative ideas around community banking. He works in market risk reporting for Lloyds Banking Group, having joined under the company’s graduate trainee scheme. He’s worked in youth work, guided by his strong Christian faith; he’s also had time in recruitment and almost became a K-Pop composer - something he may well have pursued had it not been for other commitments at the time! Some of his musical works have been published and that remains one of his big hobbies. He’s also a self-confessed numbers geek!

With this year’s Budget moved to Monday, 29 October, we bring you a pre-Budget special. This is Money editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost debate the key areas that might feature in Chancellor Philip 'Spreadsheet' Hammond’s tax and spending review. This includes housing, inheritance tax, pensions and a whole host more, as he tries to find £20 billion down the back of the Treasury sofa for the promised NHS boost. But this Budget has some extra spice, with both Brexit and a Labour party whose main policy idea seems to be to force another General Election, which it thinks it can win. We discuss what the Government needs to focus on to stamp out the Labour challenge and just how the economy is looking ahead of Brexit. One time Labour donor Lord Sugar is threatening to leave the country if Jeremy Corbyn comes into power, thanks – in large part – to its threat of a barrage of tax rises. How big is the threat from Corbyn and co - and what can you do to protect your family from a potential overhaul of pensions, Isas, capital gains and even transferring wealth to a spouse?

This is the second of a two part guide for first time buyers. In this episode, Russell and Paula walk you through the buying process, including helping you navigate the potential pitfalls.

James Cameron-Wilson is keen on three new films this week: 'First Man', a biopic of Neil Armstrong; 'Small Foot', an animated kids film; and 'Bad Times at the El Royale', a thriller set in a seedy Nevada hotel. James also highlights his 'DVD of the week': 'Il Postino', an arthouse hit from the 90s.

Graham Spooner, investment research analyst at The Share Centre, looks at the latest results from Unilever and tobacco giant, British American Tobacco. Looking ahead, Graham discusses upcoming results from three of the biggest banks: RBS, Barclays and Lloyds.

Our technology expert, Steve Caplin, is excited by Amazon's new version of the Kindle which is waterproof for an hour and can store 4000 books. He also looks at new robot vacuums which can empty themselves.

Mike Indian, author of The Groucho Tendency blog, explains how the UK may still avoid a 'no-deal Brexit'. He also argues that the Speaker of the House of Commons, should step down from his role immediately following Dame Laura Cox's report on harassment and bullying at Westminster. And finally, Mike explains why the Universal Credit could be a disaster for the Conservative party.