Q&A: Rory Stewart vs Dominic Cummings – the problem with political prophets

<p>This week: Michael and Maddie examine the rise of the Green party and ask whether it represents a passing protest vote or a genuine realignment on the British left. As Labour’s support continues to leak away and figures once loyal to Jeremy Corbyn drift towards the Greens, are Keir Starmer’s U-turns finally catching up with him – and how far can a ‘hipster–hobbit alliance’ really go?</p><p>Then: the row between Rory Stewart and Dominic Cummings, after claims about overseas students and radicalisation in Britain were dismissed – only to be vindicated. What does the episode reveal about political forecasting, expert class overconfidence, and why some of Westminster’s most celebrated commentators keep getting the future wrong?</p><p>And finally: why is Labour going after the pub? Michael and Maddie dissect the government’s botched approach to business rates, drink-driving policy and rural life – and ask whether spreadsheet socialism and petty authoritarianism are quietly crushing what remains of Merrie England.</p><p>Produced by Oscar Edmondson.</p><p>To submit your urgent questions to Michael and Maddie, visit spectator.co.uk/quiteright</p><p>Become a <em>Spectator </em>subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to <a href="spectator.co.uk/follow-your-podcasts/"; rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spectator.co.uk/adfree</a> to find out more.</p><br><p>For more <em>Spectator</em> podcasts, go to <a href="spectator.co.uk/podcasts/"; rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spectator.co.uk/podcasts</a>.</p><br><p>Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk</p>

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