
BBC Daily Politics, a popular British political discussion program, has seen several hosts since its inception in 2003. The show, which airs on BBC Two, focuses on current political events and features interviews with key political figures, journalists, and commentators. Over the years, notable presenters have included Andrew Neil, who was a long-standing host known for his incisive interviewing style, and more recently, Jo Coburn, who has become a familiar face on the program, providing insightful analysis and moderating debates on pressing political issues. The show's hosting lineup has evolved, reflecting the dynamic nature of political discourse and the BBC's commitment to delivering comprehensive political coverage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Politics Live (formerly BBC Daily Politics) |
| Broadcaster | BBC Two |
| Current Main Presenter | Jo Coburn |
| Other Presenters | Annita McVeigh, Lizzie Greenwood-Hughes (relief presenters) |
| Former Presenters | Andrew Neil, Iain Dale, Carolyn Quinn, Nick Robinson, Martha Kearney |
| First Aired | 8 January 2003 |
| Last Aired (as Daily Politics) | 24 July 2018 (rebranded as Politics Live) |
| Format | Political news and current affairs |
| Running Time | 60 minutes (varies depending on schedule) |
| Country of Origin | United Kingdom |
| Production Company | BBC Studios |
| Notable Segments | Prime Minister's Questions coverage, interviews with politicians |
| Rebranded As | Politics Live (since 2018) |
| Frequency | Weekdays (Monday to Friday) |
| Time Slot | Typically 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM (UK time) |
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What You'll Learn
- Current Host: Currently, BBC Daily Politics is hosted by a rotating team of presenters
- Past Hosts: Previous hosts include Andrew Neil, Jo Coburn, and others
- Show Format: The show features political analysis, interviews, and live debates
- Broadcast Time: It airs weekdays on BBC Two during the political season
- Replacement Show: Replaced by *Politics Live* in 2018, maintaining a similar format

Current Host: Currently, BBC Daily Politics is hosted by a rotating team of presenters
Currently, BBC Daily Politics is hosted by a rotating team of presenters, ensuring a dynamic and varied approach to political coverage. This format allows the program to benefit from the diverse expertise and perspectives of multiple journalists and broadcasters. The rotating host system is designed to provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of current political events, as each presenter brings their unique style and insights to the show. This approach also ensures that the program remains fresh and engaging, catering to a wide audience with differing interests and preferences.
The team of presenters includes seasoned journalists and political commentators who are well-versed in the intricacies of British politics. Among the regular hosts are individuals with extensive experience in political reporting, having covered major events and elections for the BBC and other prominent news organizations. Their collective knowledge and on-air chemistry contribute to the program's reputation as a trusted source of political analysis and debate. By having a rotating team, BBC Daily Politics can also adapt to breaking news and last-minute developments, ensuring that the most relevant and informed voices are available to guide viewers through the day's political landscape.
One of the key advantages of this hosting arrangement is the ability to provide in-depth coverage of a wide range of political topics. Each presenter may have specific areas of expertise, whether it's domestic policy, international relations, or economic affairs. This specialization enables the program to offer nuanced discussions and interviews, delving into the complexities of various political issues. Viewers can expect to gain valuable insights from these hosts, who often draw on their own experiences and connections within the political sphere to provide context and analysis.
The rotating host system also fosters a sense of continuity and familiarity for the audience. Regular viewers become accustomed to the different presenting styles and can anticipate the unique contributions of each host. This consistency is particularly important in political programming, where trust and reliability are essential. The BBC's approach ensures that, despite the rotation, the program maintains a cohesive identity, with a shared commitment to impartiality, accuracy, and informative content.
Furthermore, this hosting model allows for flexibility in scheduling and coverage. With a team of presenters, BBC Daily Politics can efficiently manage live broadcasts, pre-recorded segments, and special editions. This flexibility is crucial in the fast-paced world of political news, where unexpected events and developments often require rapid response and extended coverage. The rotating hosts can collaborate and adapt their schedules to provide comprehensive reporting, ensuring that the program remains a go-to source for political enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
In summary, the current hosting arrangement of BBC Daily Politics, with its rotating team of presenters, offers a rich and diverse viewing experience. This strategy not only showcases the talents of multiple journalists but also provides a well-rounded political discourse. By combining expertise, variety, and adaptability, the program continues to be a leading platform for political discussion and analysis in the UK.
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Past Hosts: Previous hosts include Andrew Neil, Jo Coburn, and others
The BBC's *Daily Politics* has seen a rotation of seasoned journalists and presenters since its inception, each bringing their unique style and expertise to the program. Among the most notable past hosts is Andrew Neil, who became synonymous with the show during his tenure. Neil, a formidable interviewer known for his incisive questioning and no-nonsense approach, hosted the program from its launch in 2003 until 2018. His ability to hold politicians to account and his deep understanding of British politics made him a central figure in the show's success. Neil's departure marked the end of an era, leaving big shoes to fill for his successors.
Another prominent figure in the show's history is Jo Coburn, who co-hosted *Daily Politics* alongside Neil and later took on a more central role after his departure. Coburn's journalistic acumen and calm demeanor made her a trusted presence on the program. She continued to host the show until its final episode in 2018, ensuring its legacy as a cornerstone of BBC political coverage. Her ability to navigate complex political discussions with clarity and fairness earned her widespread respect among viewers and colleagues alike.
Beyond Neil and Coburn, *Daily Politics* featured contributions from other notable presenters who played key roles in its evolution. Iain Dale, a political commentator and broadcaster, occasionally hosted the program, bringing his distinctive perspective to the table. Additionally, Lizzie Clarkson and Adam Fleming were among the presenters who filled in during various periods, ensuring the show maintained its high standards of political analysis and reporting. Each host brought their own style, contributing to the program's dynamic and engaging format.
The show's success was not just about individual hosts but also the chemistry between them. The partnership between Neil and Coburn, in particular, was a highlight, with their on-screen rapport enhancing the program's appeal. Their ability to balance hard-hitting interviews with insightful analysis set *Daily Politics* apart from other political shows. The legacy of these hosts continues to influence the BBC's political programming, with their contributions remaining a benchmark for quality and integrity in political journalism.
In summary, the past hosts of *Daily Politics*, including Andrew Neil, Jo Coburn, and others, played pivotal roles in shaping the program's identity. Their dedication to rigorous journalism and their ability to engage with complex political issues left a lasting impact on both the show and its audience. As *Daily Politics* evolved over the years, these hosts ensured it remained a trusted source of political news and analysis, setting a high standard for future BBC political programming.
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Show Format: The show features political analysis, interviews, and live debates
The BBC's *Daily Politics* (which ran from 2003 to 2018 and was later replaced by *Politics Live*) was a dynamic and engaging program that delved into the heart of British politics. Its show format was meticulously designed to provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of current political events, making it a staple for politically inclined audiences. The program's structure primarily revolved around three key elements: political analysis, interviews, and live debates, each contributing uniquely to the show's informative nature.
Political Analysis: The show's foundation was built on in-depth political analysis, offering viewers a nuanced perspective on the day's most pressing political issues. Expert commentators, journalists, and political correspondents dissected complex policies, legislative changes, and government decisions, making them accessible to a broad audience. This segment often included visual aids, such as graphs and charts, to illustrate trends and comparisons, ensuring viewers could grasp the implications of various political developments. The analysis was not limited to national politics; it frequently extended to international affairs, providing a global context to local issues.
Interviews: A critical component of *Daily Politics* was its interviews with key political figures, including MPs, government ministers, and opposition leaders. These interviews were conducted by the show's hosts, who were known for their incisive questioning and ability to hold politicians to account. The interviews aimed to provide clarity on political stances, challenge inconsistencies, and offer viewers a direct line to the decision-makers. This segment often sparked lively exchanges, with hosts pressing guests for detailed explanations and commitments, ensuring the audience received substantive responses rather than political rhetoric.
Live Debates: One of the most captivating aspects of the show was its live debates, which brought together politicians, experts, and sometimes members of the public to discuss contentious issues. These debates were structured to present multiple viewpoints, fostering a robust exchange of ideas. The hosts played a crucial role in moderating these discussions, ensuring all participants had an opportunity to speak while maintaining the debate's focus and decorum. Live debates often covered topics that were currently dividing public opinion, providing a platform for informed discourse and allowing viewers to witness the passion and complexity of political argumentation.
The interplay between these three elements created a rich tapestry of political discourse. The show's format encouraged critical thinking and informed citizenship by presenting not just the facts but also the diverse interpretations and implications of those facts. By combining analysis, interviews, and debates, *Daily Politics* offered a multi-dimensional view of the political landscape, making it an indispensable resource for anyone looking to stay informed about British politics.
Throughout its run, the show's hosts played a pivotal role in its success, bringing their unique styles and insights to the program. Their ability to navigate complex political waters, engage with guests, and connect with the audience was central to the show's enduring appeal. Whether it was breaking down intricate policies or facilitating heated debates, the hosts ensured that *Daily Politics* remained a trusted source of political news and analysis.
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Broadcast Time: It airs weekdays on BBC Two during the political season
The BBC's *Daily Politics* has been a staple of British political broadcasting, offering viewers in-depth analysis and discussion on current affairs. When it comes to its broadcast time, the program strategically airs weekdays on BBC Two, ensuring it reaches a wide audience during the workweek. This scheduling is deliberate, as weekdays are when political developments are most active, and viewers are more likely to engage with the latest news and debates. By airing on BBC Two, a channel known for its focus on current affairs and documentaries, *Daily Politics* positions itself as a go-to source for political insights.
The phrase "during the political season" is crucial to understanding the show's broadcast schedule. The political season typically aligns with the parliamentary calendar, which includes key events like Prime Minister's Questions, major legislative debates, and party conferences. During these periods, political activity intensifies, and *Daily Politics* capitalizes on this by providing timely coverage and analysis. This seasonal approach ensures the program remains relevant and engaging, as it directly responds to the ebb and flow of political events.
Airing on BBC Two also allows *Daily Politics* to benefit from the channel's reputation for quality journalism and serious discourse. Unlike more entertainment-focused channels, BBC Two's audience is often actively seeking in-depth analysis and informed debate. This alignment between channel identity and program content enhances the show's impact, making it a trusted source for political commentary. The weekday schedule further reinforces its role as a daily briefing for politically engaged viewers.
The weekday broadcast is not just about frequency but also about consistency. By airing Monday through Friday, *Daily Politics* establishes a routine for its audience, becoming a reliable part of their daily viewing habits. This consistency is particularly important in the fast-paced world of politics, where developments can occur rapidly. Viewers know they can tune in each weekday to stay informed, making the show an essential tool for understanding the political landscape.
Finally, the decision to air *Daily Politics* during the political season reflects the BBC's commitment to delivering content when it matters most. Rather than maintaining a year-round schedule, the program focuses on periods of heightened political activity, ensuring its content remains fresh and relevant. This approach not only maximizes viewer engagement but also allows the show to adapt to the evolving political agenda, keeping its analysis sharp and its discussions timely. In this way, the broadcast time of *Daily Politics* is a key factor in its success as a leading political program.
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Replacement Show: Replaced by *Politics Live* in 2018, maintaining a similar format
The BBC's *Daily Politics* was a popular daytime political programme that ran from 2003 to 2018, offering viewers in-depth analysis, interviews, and discussions on current affairs. In 2018, the show underwent a rebranding and was replaced by *Politics Live*, a move that aimed to refresh the format while retaining the core elements that made its predecessor successful. This transition was part of the BBC's strategy to adapt to the evolving media landscape and viewer preferences.
Politics Live maintained the essence of Daily Politics by continuing to provide a daily political discourse, ensuring that audiences remained engaged with the latest developments in British politics. The new show preserved the familiar structure, featuring a mix of live debates, expert commentary, and interviews with key political figures. This consistency in format was crucial in ensuring that loyal viewers of Daily Politics would feel at home with the replacement show. The program's ability to adapt while staying true to its roots is a testament to the BBC's understanding of its audience's needs.
One of the most notable aspects of this transition was the hosting lineup. *Politics Live* initially featured a team of presenters, including Jo Coburn, who was a regular face on *Daily Politics*. Coburn's presence provided a sense of continuity, as she brought her extensive experience and familiarity with the show's dynamics. Over time, the hosting duties were shared with other journalists, such as Andrew Neil, who added their unique perspectives and interviewing styles, further enriching the program's content.
The show's format typically included a review of the day's political headlines, followed by in-depth discussions and interviews. It often featured a panel of guests, comprising politicians, journalists, and experts, who would debate and analyze the most pressing issues. This interactive approach encouraged a diverse range of opinions, making *Politics Live* a vibrant platform for political discourse. By maintaining this format, the BBC ensured that the replacement show remained a go-to source for comprehensive political coverage.
Politics Live also embraced digital integration, a necessary evolution in the modern media landscape. The show utilized social media platforms to engage with viewers, often incorporating their questions and comments into the live discussions. This interactive element not only enhanced viewer participation but also allowed the program to stay relevant in an increasingly digital world. The replacement show's success lies in its ability to balance tradition and innovation, ensuring that the BBC's political programming remains a trusted and dynamic source of information.
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Frequently asked questions
As of recent updates, the show has been replaced by *Politics Live*, hosted by Jo Coburn.
The original hosts were Andrew Neil and Anita Anand when the show launched in 2003.
No, Andrew Neil left the show in 2018 and has not returned. The show was later rebranded as *Politics Live*.
Jo Coburn is the main presenter, often joined by other BBC political correspondents as co-hosts or contributors.

























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