The Friedrich Merz One

Steve Reed was given the job of Housing Secretary as the result of crisis, after the resignation of his close friend Angela Rayner.But he has been part of the inner circle preparing Keir Starmer's rise to power from the beginning, having recruited the man who ended up as the prime minister's Chief of Staff.In this interview, he gives Nick a behind-the-scenes account of coming to power and the "whirlwind" of an emergency reshuffle.They also discuss how to reconnect with the voters, putting up flags and who he'll have to fight to succeed in building the homes that Labour has promisedProducer: Daniel Kraemer Researcher: Chloe Desave Sound editing: Hal Haines Editor: Giles Edwards

An exclusive exit interview with Admiral Sir Tony Radakin on the week he steps down as the UK's military chief.Radakin's time as head of the armed forces was dominated by responding to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.As he leaves, he is adamant that the UK is "safe" and that the war has been a "disaster" for Putin.He also talks about the recent show of military strength in China and what it was like serving four UK prime ministers.Producer: Daniel Kraemer Researcher: Lauren Tavriger Studio Manager: Gareth Jones Editor: Giles Edwarnds

The German Chancellor speaks candidly about Trump's attitude to Europe, war on the continent, and the future relationship BritainProducer: Daniel Kraemer Researcher: Chloe Desave Editor: Giles Edwards

The Lib Dem Justice Spokesperson managed to persuade ministers to change domestic abuse law within a year of being elected to parliament. Josh Babarinde tells Nick how his own childhood experience spurred him on to push for reform. He also explains how a beer mat persuaded him to join the Liberal Democrats.Producer: Daniel Kraemer

After some of the most tumultuous days of his premiership, Keir Starmer sits down with Nick in Downing Street, to reflect on a year in power. In a wide-ranging interview, the prime minister defends his style of leadership, while taking responsibility for the setbacks.He also opens up about losing his brother last year and his personal relationship with President TrumpProducers: Daniel Kraemer, Leela Padmanabhan and Chloe Desave

A Republican Congressman outlines the values that lie behind his conservative politics.Scott Perry is the Representative for Pennsylvania's 10th District, a Trump ally, an Iran hawk who sits on the Foreign Affairs Committee, and a veteran, who flew combat missions in Iraq before turning his attention to politics.He joins Nick down the line from Washington DC, in the aftermath of his President's decision to drop bombs on Iran. Perry tells the story of how he went from growing up in a household with no electricity or running water, to being elected to the "most important deliberative body on the planet".

The Trade Minister explains how a penalty shootout played a role in his government appointment.Douglas Alexander has the same job that he had 20 years ago in Tony Blair's government. He reflects on how the world has changed in that time, and his motivation for returning to politics after a humiliating defeat in 2015.

The Shadow Chancellor sets out his vision for a more "thoughtful" politics and faces up to the challenge of winning the argument before the next general election.Sir Mel Stride reveals what he admires about his opposite number, Rachel Reeves, and why a world war two commander is one of his political heroes.He also has a warning about what the British economy would look like under Nigel Farage. Producer: Daniel Kraemer

How does it feel to be held up as the 'anti-Trump' by progressives across the globe?Jacinda Ardern was prime minister of New Zealand for 6 years and is now committed to promoting empathy and kindness in world leadership. She joins Nick in the Political Thinking studio to reflect on her unexpected rise to power and being described as a 'global pinup for progressive values'.She also opens up about how growing up in a Mormon family prepared her for politics and reveals what she told Donald Trump in the aftermath of the murder of 51 people in a mosque in New Zealand in 2019.Producer: Daniel Kraemer

After 15 years as a member of the House of Lords, Tanni Grey-Thompson reflects on how a career at the top of sport prepared her for the world of politics.The crossbench peer speaks to Nick about what she sees as a dangerous relationship between benefit reforms and legalising assisted dying.Producer: Daniel Kraemer