Podcast appearances and mentions of beth rigby

Another week, another sticky situation for the prime minister and some of his MPs - this time it's centred around his language on immigration.When Sir Keir Starmer announced his White Paper, he argued that Britain "risked becoming an island of strangers" if immigration levels were not cut.So was he intentionally evoking Enoch Powell's infamous 1968 Rivers Of Blood speech? Or was this a big mistake?Also, with the Assisted Dying Bill back in parliament this week, Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman go on a tour of the British Isles to look at how different parliaments are approaching their legislation. If MPs in Westminster vote their bill down, could it stop it in its tracks in Holyrood too?Come and join us live on Tuesday 20 May at Cadogan Hall in London, tickets available now: https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/Remember you can also watch us on YouTube!

Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman, and Ruth Davidson assemble for an elections debrief.  Beth's been following a very happy Nigel Farage after Reform gained an MP in Runcorn, took the Greater Lincolnshire mayoralty and seized control of several councils. But, how does the party promising change in its very name prove itself with greater power and responsibility?  They also discuss how Keir Starmer reacts to the Labour's losses (Harriet says he needs to deliver on what he's promised)  And what Kemi Badenoch has to do after a terrible set of results for the Conservatives (Ruth reckons it'll be worse for the 2026 set of elections)   Come and join us live on Tuesday 20 May at Cadogan Hall in London, tickets available now: https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Remember you can also watch us on YouTube! 

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman analyse Rachel Reeves's spring statement and how Donald Trump may have made things worse for her.   The chancellor has redone her maths to make sure she sticks to her own rules on running the economy - but in doing that she has got tougher on welfare cuts. Can Labour keep the dissenting voices within their own party quiet? Harriet has some insight on how they'll be trying to do that.   And do Trump's tariffs on US car imports (and the prospect of more tariffs looming) just put the chancellor on the backfoot anyway?  Also, after an American journalist was added to a US government Signal group, how much government business is done on apps? And how much loose-lipped gossip is on there?  Meanwhile, as Beth goes into the last few weeks of London marathon training, did we just start the Electoral Dysfunction run club?  Email us at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.        Remember you can also watch us on YouTube!    Help us understand more about our listeners by taking our survey  This form should only take a few minutes to complete, and Sky anonymises the responses as much as possible.   

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has set out her plans for the UK economy during her spring statement in the House of Commons.   It came as the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) - which monitors the government's spending plans - unveiled its latest economic forecasts.   Liz Bates is joined by Sky's political editor Beth Rigby, and economics and data editor Ed Conway, to pick through the detail and discuss why the chancellor changed her original plan.  Producers: Natalie Ktena  Editor: Philly Beaumont

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby has been to 11 Downing Street to talk to the Chancellor for Electoral Dysfunction.  Rachel Reeves reflects on her first few months in the job, and hints on what might come in her Spring Statement with some strong words on the need for welfare reform.  You can listen to the full interview on Electoral Dysfunction here. 

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has returned from the US after what has been seen by Number 10 as a highly successful meeting with Donald Trump.  This week, Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson look at the preparation that went into this visit. Beth reveals how she caught the US president's attention. Plus, what is it like in the Oval Office?  And how did Mr Trump react when he got that invitation from the King.  They also discuss the resignation of development minister Annelise Dodds after the aid budget was cut to boost defence spending and ask  whether this will dent Mr Starmer's post-Trump confidence.    Email us at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.       And remember, you can also watch us on YouTube! 

 What could a pact between Nigel Farage's Reform party and Kemi Badenoch's Conservatives look like? Are we about to see the Tory party lurch closer to the right?     Beth, Ruth and Harriet answer this and more, as they go through your questions – which means we also get the backstory to the iconic Beth Rigby red lipstick.     And how difficult is being married to an MP? We hear from Ruth's partner Jen about their lives in the spotlight when Ruth was leader of the Scottish Conservatives.    Email us at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.        And remember, you can also watch us on YouTube! 

Do MPs say one thing in public, and another in private? This week, Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson ask what's been going on with the two MPs suspended from the Labour party over WhatsApps messages containing offensive comments.  Andrew Gwynne and Oliver Ryan both lost the whip after Sunday newspaper revelations. It's been a difficult week for Harriet – she's worked with Andrew Gwynne for a number of years and says it's made her question her judgement.  Also – are we about to see by elections as a result? And in the week the assisted dying debate is back in the news, we discuss the repercussions of the plan to scrap the need for High Court approval after Beth speaks to the MP who has campaigned for the changes, Labour's Kim Leadbeater. Email us at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.     Watch us on Youtube too - new videos every week here. 

Iain interviews journalist and broadcaster Beth Rigby about the highlights and challenges of being Sky's political editor, how to get the most out of a political interview, the fun of podcasting over broadcasting and loads more.

President-elect Donald Trump has a strong stance on many issues, from isolationism to border control, not to mention he's an open climate change denier. Is his political platform already shaping UK party politics? Nish and Coco chat to Sky News Political Editor and host of Electoral Dysfunction Beth Rigby about what his looming second-term means for the UK.And with changes to university tuition fees in England for the first time in eight years - we dissect the crisis in higher education with President of the National Union of Students Amira Campbell and General Secretary of the University and College Union Jo Grady. Nish and Coco also dig into the mailbag to find out what you think. Plus - some essential listening - does Coco not understand what a mullet is?Guests:Beth RigbyAmira CampbellJo Grady Useful Links:Christmas Comedy in aid of Women and Children First ft. Nish Kumarhttps://www.leicestersquaretheatre.com/show/christmas-comedy-in-aid-of-women-children-first/ Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk

It's Halloween week and the prospect of Trump getting in is certainly spooking Jemma and Marina. The floods in Spain are pretty damn terrifying too, as is the news from other parts of the world, including of course, the situation in the Middle East. However, the Trawl ladies are not ones for sticking their hands in the sand or their fingers in their ears though are still able to laugh about a few things, including what Jemma is reminded of every time she hears the words 'carbon capture.' Of course there is plenty of budget chat, which might not get everyone going but certainly enthralls Beth Rigby. So much so that there ends up following some quite bizarre political entendres. Then, find out what Marina and Jemma make of the main talking points of Rachel Reeves' first budget and of course hear some interesting tweets. Though perhaps avoid Liz Truss' riveting analysis if you can, although Jacob Rees Mogg was delighted to have the economy wrecking former PM on his show to rake it all over and to pontificate. Cool. This episode contains some excellent under rated tweets, a Trump themed pudding and the type of political analysis you're incredibly unlikely to hear anywhere else. Enjoy! Thank you for sharing and do tweet us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcastPatreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcastYoutubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawlTwitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastCreated and Produced by Jemma Forte & Marina PurkissEdited by Max Carrey

Rachel Reeves has delivered a historic budget - Labour's first in 14 years, the first ever from a female chancellor, and the biggest tax-raising fiscal event in more than 30 years.    On the Sky News Daily, host Darren McCaffrey is joined by economics and data editor Ed Conway and deputy political editor Sam Coates to discuss their reflections and expert analysis on the momentous budget.    Plus, political editor Beth Rigby has been speaking to Chancellor Rachel Reeves about whether Labour has broken promises in its election manifesto as the Tories are claiming.     Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Editor: Philly Beaumont 

Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Robert Jenrick and Tom Tugendhat are contenders to become the next Conservative Party leader.     With infighting already playing out among the candidates, and outgoing leader Rishi Sunak calling for party unity, can whoever is successfully chosen last until, and even win, the next general election in 2029?     On this episode of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is at the Tory party conference in Birmingham, and with political editor Beth Rigby, they discuss the leadership hopefuls' campaigns, and the mood among members for their chances against Labour.     Plus, Niall catches up with Conservative MP Iain Duncan Smith, former Tory MPs Penny Mordaunt, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, former special adviser to Boris Johnson Tim Montgomerie, and Conservative commentator Iain Dale.  Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Editor: Paul Stanworth

As the UK's first female chancellor delivers her speech to the Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool, the Sky News Daily asks why the new government is already fighting to regain the trust of the public.   Host Niall Paterson is joined by Sky's political editor Beth Rigby and economic and data editor Ed Conway in the conference hall to comb through Rachel Reeves's speech.  Producer: Rosie Gillott   Editor: Philly Beaumont   

As the new prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer makes his international debut at the NATO summit in Washington – what does he need to do to make a quick impact with international colleagues?    On today's Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Sky's political correspondent Tamara Cohen to discuss how Sir Keir is tackling his first international visit.    Plus, Lord Peter Ricketts, former diplomat and French Ambassador, joins Niall to take a look at Labour's wider foreign policy plans.   For further background from Sky News, you can read our political editor Beth Rigby's analysis of Starmer's plans to argue the case to NATO that all members should increase their defence spending here.   Producers: Rosie Gillott, Soila Apparicio Editor: Paul Stanworth  Promotions producer: David Chipakupaku 

Jemma and Marina were thrilled when Labour MP, Jess Phillips, agreed to take time out of her mad diary for a proper chinwag. The Trawl ladies were fascinated to know how it feels being a female MP during such febrile times and found out what motivates her to keep going. At time of record, Rishi Sunak, hadn't surprised everyone by calling the election so unexpectedly early but Labour were in election mode nonetheless, and Marina and Jemma took the opportunity to find out what Jess makes of Natalie Elphicke's defection from the Tory party and, how it felt when she quit the front bench in 2023 over Keir Starmer's stance on Gaza, after voting in the Commons for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. They discuss the work she does in her role as Minister for Domestic Violence and Safeguarding, and her podcast with Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson, Electoral Dysfunction and ask the question everyone wants answered - will Labour become more 'left' if/when they get into power. EnjoyThank you for sharing and do tweet us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcastPatreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcastYoutubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawlTwitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcast

Presenter turned political campaigner Carol Vorderman joins Sky News political editor Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson as the general election campaign enters its final fortnight.Jess has chosen Carol for her subs bench this time because of the campaigning she now does on social media.They assess the damage accusations people close to the PM placed bets on the election date, could have on the Conservative campaign.Plus, Beth, Ruth and Carol talk about why some listeners are seeing no campaigning on their doorstep, while others can't escape the leaflets.Email Beth, Ruth, and Carol at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.  In this episode we mention the constituency of Bristol North West, the full list of candidates are: Caroline Gooch (Liberal Democrats)Darren Jones (Labour Party)Scarlett O'Connor (Reform UK)Mary Page (Green Party)Laura Saunders (Conservative and Unionist Party)Ben Smith (Social Democratic Party)

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika joins Sky News political editor Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson as the general election campaign heads towards its final fortnight.   They're assessing whether Labour can shake off the questions about its taxation policies.   As Conservative Grant Shapps seemed to accept election defeat in an interview, is that something anyone should do in the middle of the campaign?   They discuss the "what ifs" of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage as he tries to become an MP.   And as the SNP launch their manifesto, how is the election shaping up differently in Scotland?   Plus, Beth, Ruth and Ayesha tackle listeners' questions on manifesto promises and Reform UK's unusual set-up.   Email Beth, Ruth, and Margaret at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.   In this episode, we mention the Clacton-on-Sea constituency, the full list of candidates are:     Bensilum, Matthew (Liberal Democrats)   Farage, Nigel Paul (Reform UK)   Jamieson, Craig (Climate Party)   Mack, Tony (Independent)   Osben, Natasha (Green Party)   Owusu-Nepaul, Jovan (Labour Party)   Papanastasiou, Tasos (Heritage Party)   Pemberton, Andrew (UKIP – NO to Illegal Immigration)   Watling, Giles Francis (Conservative Party) 

The conversation discusses the recent TV moment where Beth Rigby questioned Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak individually. It explores the lack of inspiration and vision from both leaders and the sense of distrust and cynicism among the public. The conversation also touches on the manifestos of the Labour and Conservative parties, highlighting the Conservatives' blizzard of policies and the cautious approach of Labour. It emphasises the need for an honest debate about tax and spend and the impact of spending cuts on local government. With former Special Adviser Giles Wilkes, who's now at the Institute for Government. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What would you do if you saw Boris Johnson coming out of a bush? It's a startling sight but it could happen if he happens to be promoting one of his columns for The Mail. As for his sister, she definitely won't be in a Lidl but might be in a Sainsbury's, you'll know why when you hear the clip. Then we head to the campaign trail for 'The Election Section' and Beth Rigby is the latest presenter to have grilled Sunak and Starmer. Starmer may have done better in that arena but neither are covering themselves in glory with the public. One laughs at a doctor, the other has a tone deaf response to a child's story. Still, not much beats the reception, Esther Macvey got when she made some wild claim about her party. Then to France we go and this is where it becomes apparent that Jemma might have had a night on the tiles and be feeling a little 'fragile' during record. Her French accent is more Del Boy than Del Boy's as Marina points out. Why has Macron called an election? What happened in the EU Parliament elections and why can't Jemma pronounce the word 'effortlessly.' There may be a few laughs in this epThen some truly staggeringly bad takes and a plethora of Under Rated Tweets. Pudding is served by Munya ChawawaThank you for sharing and do tweet us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcastPatreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcastYoutubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawlTwitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcast

Former Labour MP Margaret Hodge joins Sky's Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson to talk about the latest developments in the general election campaign.     On this episode, Beth takes us behind the scenes of Sky's leaders' event in Grimsby, where Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak faced not just Beth, but an audience of voters on their plan for the country. Ruth and Margaret give their take on how the two men did, and they also react to Labour's 'no surprises' manifesto launch.     Plus, the trio answer listeners' questions - including which MPs they hope to see popping up on reality TV after the election. Email Beth, Ruth, and Margaret at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.    If you missed the The Battle for Number 10: A Sky Leader's Special, you can catch up here: https://news.sky.com/video/the-battle-for-number-10-a-sky-news-leaders-special-13152233    

Welcome to the PoliticsJOE Podcast. Last night, Ava, Oli, and Ed recorded live from the PoliticsJOE dungeon, reacting to the somewhat painful to watch interrogation of Sunak and Starmer by Sky's Beth Rigby. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we look at the Sky News leaders' event where the two main party leaders were quizzed on their plans for government.Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer were interviewed by Beth Rigby before facing questions from the studio audience. The Labour leader was grilled on tax rises whilst the prime minister faced tough questions on the NHS and immigration. Adam is joined by former Conservative adviser Jo Tanner and former Labour adviser Tom Hamilton.And the Green Party launched their manifesto with a focus on taxing the wealthy to pay for the NHS and housing. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Gemma Roper and Sam McLaren. The technical producer was Hannah Montgomery. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika joins Sky's Beth Rigby and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson to talk about the latest developments in the general election campaign.     On this episode, they discuss whether Rishi Sunak can recover from his D-Day blunder, the fallout from Douglas Ross's resignation as leader of the Scottish Conservatives, and how the parties are funding their manifestos as they are revealed this week.    Plus, Beth tells us how she is preparing to interview the prime minister and Sir Keir Starmer at the upcoming Sky Leaders' Event. Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.        

Labour grandee Harriet Harman joins Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson as the first Friday sub for Jess Philips during the election period.    They break down the Labour tax row that has dogged both Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer since the first leaders' debate earlier this week, give their take on the impact Nigel Farage standing in Clacton-on-Sea will have on the campaign, and lift the curtain on how the parties will be writing their manifestos.     Plus, Harriet reveals a surprise ally from her time in the Commons.       Email Beth, Ruth, and Harriet at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.       

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika joins Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson as the regular Tuesday sub for Jess Philips during the election period.    On this episode, they talk about how leaders will be preparing for TV debates - Beth's hosted one, Ayesha has worked with politicians doing them, and Ruth has stood behind a lectern several times herself.   They discuss what Rishi Sunak might try to land as he tries to close the gap in the opinion polls.  Plus, has there been a "purge" of the left in Labour as Starmer thinks about what his benches will look like if he becomes prime minister.     Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.   

Labour's Angela Rayner speaks to Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby in an extended interview for the Daily podcast.The party's deputy leader says that she believes Diane Abbott should be able to stand as an MP - and she denied leader Sir Keir Starmer was acting "in a factional way".On the first official day of campaigning, she also spoke about the investigations into her living arrangements - and revealed the details of her campaign battle bus.Producer: Soila Apparicio Promotions Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Paul Stanworth  

After the Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer set out what Labour would do if it wins the election, Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson discuss the six key policies that have been unveiled.  They also talk about the major speech made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the beginning of the week and debate whether the election campaign has really started.    Plus, it's been a politically good week for Jess Phillips after her amendment to a bill on banning arrested MPs from Parliament was passed by one vote.    And there is a listener email about Swiss food.   Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.   

Following the prime minister's trip to Europe this week, Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson examine whether Rishi Sunak is convincing on the world stage and ask if his announcement on defence spending will help the Conservatives' chances in next week's local elections.     And after the Rwanda bill was passed this week - is this another win for the prime minister or a policy that he should have dumped months ago?     Plus, what's the future for Scottish First Minister Hamza Yusuf following the breakdown of the coalition between the SNP and the Greens. Ruth Davidson who was the leader of the Scottish Conservatives gives her verdict.     And how do MPs get deselected if they behave badly and can you become an MP if you have a past?  The team answer more of your questions. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.    

Following allegations Tory MP Mark Menzies misused campaign funds, Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips, and Ruth Davidson examine the fallout for the government and for the politician who has been suspended from the parliamentary party. He denies all the claims. And after the Commons votes to ban anyone born after 1 January 2009 from buying cigarettes, the trio ask whether the policy is "unconservative" as suggested by some MPs.     As David Cameron meets G7 foreign ministers in Italy, what makes a good foreign secretary?     Plus, Beth, Jess, and Ruth talk about Liz Truss's new book, Ten Years To Save The West, and wonder if she's going to make a bigger comeback.    In response to the suspension of Mark Menzies, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "There's a process in place. He has had the whip withdrawn.  "There's further information that the chief whip I understand became familiar with yesterday and actions being swiftly taken on the basis of that further information.   I think it is important to stress that the MP in question here denies the allegations and so on basis of sort of fairness and proper justice, I think it's important to mention that."Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.       

'Absolutely nuts' was how former Prime Minister Boris Johnson described Rishi Sunak's plan to gradually phase out smoking – banning anyone born since the start of 2009 from ever being able to buy cigarettes or tobacco products like vapes.    Liz Truss, who was also briefly prime minister in-between the two men, is also among some critical of the proposal – which she described as 'profoundly unconservative'.    Tories are being given a free vote in the Commons – allowing them to vote with their conscience, not necessarily the government.    But will the policy create a smokefree generation? And what will it mean for Conservative Party ideology?    Niall Paterson looks at the health implications with Alice Wiseman, vice president of The Association of Directors of Public Health, and the politics of the policy with Sky's political editor Beth Rigby and Tory peer Lord Frost, who disagrees with the planned legislation.    Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse  Podcast Promotions Producer: Iona Brunker Senior producer: Annie Joyce Editors: Philly Beaumont and Paul Stanworth 

As the fall-out from the Westminster honeytrap scandal continues to unravel, Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson explain why contacts are so valuable in Parliament and ask what William Wragg's resignation tells us about Rishi Sunak's leadership.   And, with Labour riding hight after two major polls predicted landslide victories at the upcoming election, should Keir Starmer be worried about voter complacency?  Plus, Beth, Ruth and Jess talk about the impact of Dr Hilary Cass' review into gender identity services for under-18s in England.   Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.           Warning: some strong language.       We recorded this episode before Greater Manchester Police said it'd invesitgate claims that Angela Rayner may have broken electoral law over she information she gave a decade ago.

Why do politicians never answer the question?' It's something Beth Rigby, Jess Philips and Ruth Davidson get asked all the time; so, this week they've dedicate the whole episode to answering your questions.     From why back-benchers ask seemingly pointless questions at PMQs, to the importance of Instagram for the next general election, and where to get the best cup of tea in Westminster, Ruth, Jess and Beth have got it covered.    

While the Royal family have faced a challenging few weeks, Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips, and Ruth Davidson explore the points where royalty and politics meet, and what the family will say publicly about the state of cancer care following the King and the Princess of Wales' diagnoses.    Plus, is deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden someone likely to be feeling on top this week after calling out China-backed cyber-attacks and announcing sanctions against two individuals and a company? Beth, Jess, and Ruth discuss the extent of the Chinese threat.    And they go through more of your messages and questions.  Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.           Warning: some explicit language.   

Lauren Layfield introduces Electoral Dysfunction on the podcast recommendation podcast - Your Next Podcast. Beth Rigby. Jess Phillips. Ruth Davidson. With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what's really going on in Westminster and beyond. Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they're written, and how they're sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.You can follow Electoral Dysfunction and listen to all of the episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever you get your podcasts.

As the prime minister tries to shake off rumours of a Tory coup and faces more delays to his Rwanda legislation - Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Jess Phillips discuss where his leadership is at.  What could happen if the local elections on May 2nd end badly for Rishi Sunak?  Although he's standing down, they think Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar is having a better week – was this a good time for him to go?    And two politicians answer a listener question about why politicians never answer the question.  Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at electoraldysfunction@sky.uk, post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.         Warning: some explicit language.      

Another shocker of a week for the Conservatives which saw their biggest donor caught up in a race row, and their former Deputy Chairman defect to Reform UK. Beth Rigby, Political Editor at Sky News, tells Nish and Coco that the Tories don't want to give back the £10 million they received from Frank Hester last year, despite the racist language he's alleged to have used about the MP Diane Abbott. Beth also reveals what happened at the surprisingly tetchy press conference held by Reform to unveil Lee Anderson as their party's first ever MP in the Commons.Beth tells Nish and Coco why she's obsessed with THAT Royal Mother's Day picture, they discuss Princess Catherine's questionable photoshop skills, conspiracy theories and what it all means for the Royal Family. Nish's hero of the week is film director Jonathan Glazer, while Coco isn't happy with Times columnist Matthew Parris. Plus hear about Beth's Arsenal bantz with Keir Starmer, Coco's visit to the dentist…and more badger chat!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Beth Rigby, Political Editor, Presenter and Podcaster, Sky News Audio credits:Sky NewsSBS/7 Network/Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Useful links:https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/electoral-dysfunction/id1613562765https://www.tortoisemedia.com/listen/who-trolled-amber/

After cutting national insurance for the second time in yesterday's Budget, the prime minister has said it's his "long-term ambition" to eventually scrap the tax.As only those in work pay it, it's seen by many – including the Chancellor - as an unfair double tax on those in the workforce. But, completely abolishing it would cost the government £46bn.Labour have criticised the plans, saying the move would cost more than the cuts unveiled in Liz Truss' chaotic mini-budget and the director of the Institute of Fiscal Studies called it unrealistic.On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Greg Thwaites from the Resolution Foundation and Linda Yueh, broadcaster and economist, to explore how realistic scrapping NI would be and why it's so tricky to simplify the tax system.And, political editor Beth Rigby pops in to discuss how this idea is playing out politically. Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

It was a budget of few surprises. As promised, the chancellor cut the rate of National Insurance tax by 2p in every pound but admits the overall tax burden is still higher than it has been in the last 70 years. The cuts have been labelled "Tory con" by Labour, which leaves people paying "more for less".On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by data and economics editor Ed Conway to break down the changes in tax and childcare, and if the chancellor's plan will help the economy.Plus, hear from political editor Beth Rigby about whether the budget can save the Tories from election defeat.Jeremy Hunt has delivered his last spring budget before a general election, hoping to revive the UK economy and his party's hopes of re-election.Producers: Soila Apparicio and Sydney PeadAssistant producer: Iona Brunker Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Paul Stanworth

On the 3rd March 2021, Sarah Everard was murdered by Wayne Couzens, an off-duty police officer. The incident sparked national outrage and a surge in fighting violence against women and girls. Three years on, how much has changed? Emma Barnett speaks to the Detective Inspector who interviewed Wayne Couzens, Nick Harvey, and former Detective Superintendent Shabnam Chaudri.If you've browsed through political podcasts recently, you'd be forgiven for thinking the guys have got that particular market cornered. There's The Rest is Politics with Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell, Political Currency with Ed Balls and George Osborne, and Politics at Jack and Sam's. That may be about to change, with an all-female line-up on new podcast Electoral Dysfunction, featuring Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Labour MP Jess Phillips and Conservative peer and former Scottish party leader Ruth Davidson. Jess and Ruth join Emma Barnett to tell her what they'll be covering.Poet Hollie McNish is back with a new book, with her unique and hugely relatable take on all kinds of taboos, on subjects ranging from friendships, parenthood and breastfeeding, to periods, UTIs and vulvas. Her live readings are often blush inducing, with plenty of adult content and strong language. She's talking to Emma Barnett about her inspiration behind the book of poetry and prose ‘Lobster and other things I'm learning to love'. Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, better known as CMAT, is an Irish singer, songwriter, and musician. Playing country-tinged pop, both of her albums have topped the Irish Albums Chart. She was longlisted for the BBC's Sound of 2024 and joins Emma fresh from the BRIT awards, where she was nominated for Best International Artist. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Emma Pearce

Today, something different – we're bringing you the trailer of an exciting new podcast from Sky called Electoral Dysfunction.Beth Rigby. Jess Philips. Ruth Davidson. With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what's really going on in Westminster and beyond.Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they're written, and how they're sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.Here's the trailer. For more, follow Electoral Dysfunction now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Today, something different – we're bringing you the first episode of an exciting new podcast from Sky called Electoral Dysfunction.Beth Rigby. Jess Philips. Ruth Davidson.With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what's really going on in Westminster and beyond.Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they're written, and how they're sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.Here's the first epsiode. For more, follow Electoral Dysfunction now wherever you listen to podcasts.Warning: some explicit language.

Today, something different – we're bringing you the trailer of an exciting new podcast from Sky called Electoral Dysfunction.Beth Rigby. Jess Philips. Ruth Davidson. With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what's really going on in Westminster and beyond.Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they're written, and how they're sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.Here's the trailer. For more, follow Electoral Dysfunction now wherever you listen to podcasts.

Today, something different – we're bringing you the trailer of an exciting new podcast from Sky called Electoral Dysfunction.Beth Rigby. Jess Philips. Ruth Davidson.With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what's really going on in Westminster and beyond.Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they're written, and how they're sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.Here's the trailer. For more, follow Electoral Dysfunction now wherever you listen to podcasts.

After weeks of confusion, Sir Keir Starmer has finally announced a row back in Labour's pledge to spend £28bn a year on its flagship green prosperity plan. While the policy will not be completely scrapped, the climbdown comes in the form of the party's spending commitments. The party says the £28bn target will be dropped due to uncertain public finances, and comes a week after Labour's shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves refused to commit to the green spending target ten times, in an interview with Sky's Beth Rigby. On Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson explores this latest backtrack with our deputy political editor Sam Coates and our science and technology editor Tom Clarke. Podcast producers: Sydney Pead and Alex Edden Assistant producer: Evan Dale Editor: Wendy Parker

During the first week of January 2023, as a fairly new prime minister, Rishi Sunak made a speech to outline his top five priorities. As 2023 draws to a close, one of those priorities has started to dominate the Commons – and could become a significant threat to his leadership in 2024. The "stop the boats" policy is one of the big politics stories of the year, which host Niall Paterson picks over with political editor Beth Rigby. They also discuss how Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has been setting himself up for a general election next year. Also in this series, Niall will look at international affairs, the economy, science and tech, and the Royal Family. Podcast producer: Soila Apparicio Promotion producers: David Chipakupaku, Sydney Pead, and Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

The prime minister has given his evidence to the COVID inquiry today, defending his Eat Out to Help Out scheme and telling of fears within the Treasury that the UK would not be able to fund the pandemic response. While at the inquiry, some of Rishi Sunak's Tory colleagues have called on the PM to scrap his Rwanda bill, as it goes to the Commons tomorrow. On the Sky News Daily, Jonathan Samuels hosts our political editor Beth Rigby, who discusses the difficulties Sunak faces within his party over Rwanda. Plus, our political correspondent Tamara Cohen reports on the PM's accounts at the COVID inquiry. Producer: Alex Edden Editor: Philly Beaumont

The former prime minister, Boris Johnson, has given almost five hours of evidence to the COVID inquiry today.He began by apologising for the pain and suffering of victims and their families during the pandemic and admitted that "unquestionably" mistakes were made by his government. But the King's Counsel's attempt to get square answers from him about vanished WhatsApp messages, the ‘toxic' culture inside cabinet and the government's stalled reaction time wasn't so straight forward.Today, Sky's political editor Beth Rigby joins Niall Paterson to unpack the first of two days of questioning in the search for answers about Boris Johnson's leadership during the pandemic. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont

Home Secretary James Cleverly is having a busy third week in his new job, just as his approval ratings among Tory supporters collapse, according to polling by ConservativeHome. He's announced new rules intended to bring down legal migration to the UK, including raising the salary needed to qualify for a skilled worker visa to £38,700, and overseas care workers will no longer be allowed to bring their partners and children. British people will also no longer be able to bring over their foreign-born spouses unless they earn £38,700. On the Sky News Daily with Niall Paterson, our political editor Beth Rigby and business correspondent Paul Kelso unpick the latest migration announcements. Plus, Nadra Ahmed, executive co-chairman of the National Care Association, joins Niall to discuss the potential impact on the care sector. Podcast producer: Soila ApparicioInterviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi Promotion producer: David ChipakupakuEditor: Wendy Parker

Matt Hancock took the stand at the COVID inquiry for the first of two days of giving evidence on Thursday. In 2021, the then health secretary was forced to resign after he admitted he broke the government's own coronavirus guidance to pursue an affair with an aide. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson analyses what Mr Hancock said and the key questions he answered, with our political editor Beth Rigby. Producer: Soila Apparicio Promotions producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont