6. Neil Kinnock

2025-08-12

Neil Kinnock took over as Labour leader in 1983 - when the party was at one of its most divided ever, and had lost 45 seats. Whilst Kinnock lost two general elections, he is remembered as a moderniser and has been credited with getting the party to a point where it could succeed in subsequent elections. In this exciting episode we hear incredible first-hand insights from Kinnock himself. With amazing guests Neil Kinnock, Charles Clarke, Peter Dorey, David Kogan, Christopher Massey and Martin Westlake - this episode explores Kinnock’s background, leadership and legacy.

Neil Kinnock took over as Labour leader in 1983 - when the party was at one of its most divided ever, and had lost 45 seats.

Whilst Kinnock lost two general elections, he is remembered as a moderniser and has been credited with getting the party to a point where it could succeed in subsequent elections.

In this exciting episode we hear incredible first-hand insights from Kinnock himself.

With amazing guests Neil Kinnock, Charles Clarke, Peter Dorey, David Kogan, Christopher Massey and Martin Westlake - this episode explores Kinnock’s background, leadership and legacy.

Leading Labour is researched, presented and produced by Izzy Conn - find me on:

LinkedIn: Izzy Conn

X/Twitter: @izzy_conn_

Edited by Will Barber-Taylor, host of the Debated Podcast.

LinkedIn: Will Barber-Taylor

X/Twitter: @WBarberTaylor

Artwork by Sydney Godden, Ravensbourne BA Illustration for Communication student.

Music by Rykard From.

Find out more about the Institute of Historical Research here.

LINKS

Neil Kinnock, former leader of the Labour Party and current member of the House of Lords.

Charles Clarke, Chief of Staff under Kinnock and Home Secretary under Blair, and co-editor of British Labour Leaders (2015).