'We're sworn enemies': George Osborne and Ed Balls launch economics podcast

Ed Balls and George Osborne are recording a podcast pilot for a fall release. Image Credit & Copyright: Rob Nicholson/Persephonica. Political rivals George Osborne and Ed Balls, who used to battle in the House of Commons mailbox, launch a weekly podcast.

Former Chancellor Osborne and former Shadow Chancellor are Dancing with the Stars contestants Mr Balls say they want to help people to understand «what's really going on in the corridors of power.»

In a podcast starting this fall, former Conservative and Labor politicians will talk about economics, politics and decision-making. in Westminster and other issues affecting how people vote.

Mr Balls said: «The politics of money are back in the news, but all too often the stories that will have the most transformative impact on people's lives get the least attention.»

George and Me. want to bring the economy back to life and put it on the agenda, explaining and entertaining in equal measure.

“Politics is always next to the markets, so I look forward to teaming up with my longtime political rival as we use the entire our experience of Whitehall and Westminster in the show.»

In more unfortunate times: Mr. Osborne and Mr. Balls were political rivals during the coalition government Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Mr. Osborne said: «Ed and I are sworn enemies — once sworn enemies and now true friends.

«When we talk about politics and economics, I find myself talking to someone who offer a different point of view, but have insight and intelligence that I appreciate.

«We want to engage listeners in this conversation in the hope that people will better understand what is really happening in the corridors of power, from those who's been there and have some laughs along the way.»

The podcast, as yet untitled, will be released in the fall and will be produced by Persephonica, the same company that produces The News Agents by Emily Maitlis and John Sopel .

This follows the success of The Rest Is Politics, a podcast by Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart that has proven to be hugely popular.