Podcast appearances and mentions of Ruth Davidson

UPDATE: We talked again on this episode about speculation that Rachel Reeves was going to raise income tax rates in the budget. Since we recorded, Beth's been told that those plans have been ditched. Read her analysis here and we'll discuss what's going on next time.ON THIS EPISODE: Wes Streeting had to say he's more Joe Marler than Jonathan Ross after Number 10 started briefing he was plotting to oust Keir Starmer. Westminster has been full of Traitors analogies after a chaotic week which ended with the PM apologising to his health secretary. Harriet tells Beth and Ruth how it all went down within Labour - and she warns the Faithfuls (as they describe themselves) are getting fed up. We also talk again about speculation that Rachel Reeves will raise income tax rates in the budget. Since we recorded, Beth's been told that those plans have been ditched. Read more about Beth's story here and we'll discuss what's going on next time.Also on this episode: it was a tricky week at the BBC too, after two senior resignations. We discuss how politicians will keep talking about the BBC over the next year. Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.

Who is to blame for two more inmates being wrongly freed from prison? The Conservatives attempted a mic drop moment with David Lammy this week by trying to get the Justice Secretary to admit to it live in the House of Commons. So why did Lammy avoid the question five times? And when 262 prisoners were released by mistake in the year to March – how is this happening every week? At the very least, Harriet sees the saga as an opportunity for the government to sort out the prison service. Plus Beth, Ruth and Harriet are joined by pollster Luke Tryl, and a group of voters who tell us why they're not convinced by the Prime Minister so far. So how tricky is this budget going to be for Rachel Reeves when most people's top worry is the cost of living? Can she actually put up taxes? And will more people just end up supporting Nigel Farage and Zack Polanski? Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.

Harriet responds to your messages about the Green Party after she went viral for her take on leader Zack Polanski.How does its surge in popularity link up with the result of the Caerphilly by-election? And is the party getting more support because it's not entirely focused on climate change? Plus, rumour has it that the Labour government is planning to raise income tax in next month's budget. It would mean breaking a manifesto promise. So how believable is it? Beth, Ruth and Harriet aren't convinced. They discuss how the government could get itself out of the black hole, and what would happen if it did break its promise on tax. Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.

Sir Keir Starmer has backed safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, as a fifth abuse survivor calls on her to quit to restore trust in the grooming gangs inquiry. Beth, Ruth and Harriet explain why the national inquiry into the sexual exploitation of children by grooming gangs in England and Wales has become so poisonous and why the victims are so unhappy. Plus, as the government faces growing calls to formally strip Prince Andrew of his dukedom – what's the relationship between politics and royalty?And as membership for the Green Party surges, what's the appeal of the leader Zack Polanski? Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.

There are new questions about who knew what and when about the collapse of a trial of alleged Chinese spies. Beth, Ruth, and Harriet explain why a row involving names you might not know does have implications for the country – can Beijing be both a friend and a foe? And while there are questions for government and civil servants – they ask if Kemi Badenoch has made a misstep with her response. Plus, Beth was there as Donald Trump announced his plan for peace in the Middle East. She shares the stories from her last-minute trip to join world leaders in Egypt. And come back on Sunday for our bumper back to back interviews with both candidates in the Deputy Labour Leadership contest - Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell.Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.

Fresh from the conference in Manchester, Beth gives Ruth and Harriet the inside track on her 'tetchy' interview with Badenoch - why couldn't she answer a question about Nigel Farage in the same way Keir Starmer did? And just how bad was her conference gaffe compared to ones in the past?Later, with a peace plan brokered by Donald Trump in the Middle East, what effect will it have on protests here?And has the government got it right on policing demonstrations?Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube. Fill in our survey: https://forms.gle/G72yDkjs6EmoVLp39 

Beth's at the Conservative party conference – talking to the shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins.  She says that Kemi Badenoch has shown resilience and character in her first year as party leader- but it's taken time to find confidence and her 11 months of ‘listening' and ‘absorbing' has come with ‘political knocks'.  She acknowledges that she is sorry about the Tory proposal to leave the ECHR - but says politicians have to deal with the politics of today.  She also reveals how her parents met at Tory conference and which politician makes her shout at TV.  Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube. Fill in our survey: https://forms.gle/G72yDkjs6EmoVLp39  

When the Prime Minister said Reform's migration policy was ‘racist' - was that a mistake? It dominated the Labour Party conference in Liverpool this week, where Beth asked Keir Starmer about his comments... and pulled him up on Donald Trump's remarks about Sadiq Khan.  So with the May elections starting to loom in the minds of politicians, how worried are Labour that they are going to lose out to Reform? And did Andy Burnham have the impact everyone expected in Liverpool?  Plus, Harriet and Ruth give their tales of conferences past.  Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.  Fill in our survey: https://forms.gle/G72yDkjs6EmoVLp39   

Health Secretary Wes Streeting didn't want to get moved to the Home Office in the recent reshuffle - and he planned how to get out of it if the job was offered. Beth asks also asks him about future strike action by doctors. He's clear in his warning to members of the BMA: "The NHS is hanging by a thread, don't pull it." The interview was recorded at Labour Party conference.  Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube. 

Donald Trump gave his two cents on what women should be doing whilst pregnant this week... and Nigel Farage followed suit with his view back here.   So how damaging are their comments? And why do men think they know best about women's bodies?  Later - is Andy Burnham plotting a move on Downing Street? He claims Labour MPs are asking him to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the leadership of the party.  Days before the Liverpool party conference, what's Burnham up to and will it unsettle MPs? Harriet wonders if everyone is getting over-anxious about the thought of a Reform UK government.  And with the UN General Assembly coming to a close in New York, what can we be optimistic about? Ruth and Harriet give their take as part of the Hope Campaign. Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube.  And on Monday, we'll have an extra episode in the feed from Labour Party Conference, after Beth sits down with Health Secretary Wes Streeting.  As we talked about it on the show the advice on taking Lemsip during pregnancy can be found here: https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org/leaflets-a-z/colds-and-flu/   

On this episode we are showcasing two of Sky News' other podcasts as we go over Donald Trump's second state visit.  Electoral Dysfunction's Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman are joined by Trump 100's Mark Stone to tackle a news conference with potential ramifications to the world order. From the pomp and pageantry to the slightly uneasy division between the President and Prime Minister, the group give their special and unique insight on the historic visit.  But who was the winner and are any of the leaders better off?  Listen and follow Electoral Dysfunction and Trump 100 wherever you get your podcasts.

Starmer and Trump meet at Chequers and the world's eyes are on them. So why did Trump say he doesn't know Peter Mandelson? The UK's former ambassador to Washington who was sacked last week?And what did Trump mean when he said that Putin had "let him down"? To match the occasion - a special episode of Electoral Dysfunction and Trump100, a Sky News podcast mashup. Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson are joined by Mark Stone, who's been on the state visit all week. So as Team Trump leaves British soil… is Starmer better off now than he was at the start of the week? And where does that press confernece leave him as he prepares to recognise the state of Palestine. Also - Jimmy Kimmel comes off air - what does it say about free spech, both in the US and here at home? Remember you can watch all our episodes on our YouTube channel! 

Peter Mandelson is sacked as the UK's ambassador to the US - his former cabinet colleague, Harriet, says it's shameful that he didn't resign. It's all after new revelations over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.Ruth isn't impressed either and wonders why Keir Starmer was defending him at PMQs.Donald Trump arrives in London for his state visit next week.Given questions about Epstein always raise his hackles – how will the PM tackle his visit now?Remember, you can also watch Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson on YouTube. 

Happy 1st anniversary, Keir Starmer. He wanted to be talking about what he sees as Labour's achievements after 12 months in goverment and his 10-year plan for the NHS.   But, after another dramatic policy U-turn and the sight of his own chancellor crying at PMQs, when he kept his support for her slightly vague, Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson discuss if his start in office has been shattered by this week.    They also wonder if the solution to make relations with his own MPs a bit easier would be to make better use of Angela Rayner. Remember, you can also watch us on YouTube!

Are Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves falling out over winter fuel payments? Beth tells us what she's been hearing in Westminster about a rift between the pair and although it's denied by Number 11, she's heard there's a “palpable tension” between the principal players over the change in policy.   Also, with a vote on welfare reforms coming up next month Beth, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson discuss how it will play out with Labour MPs and whether the government is losing its grip despite having such a big majority.    Plus, Beth speaks to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds about the winter fuel U-turn and whether the government can get a better deal with Donald Trump.  Remember you can also watch us on YouTube! 

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.   

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! 

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. 

Matthew Stadlen sits in and interviews podcaster and former Scottish Tory leader Baroness Ruth Davidson live from the Edinburgh Fringe. They talk about the future of the Conservative Party, whether she'll make a return to frontline politics, why she thinks Labour is wrong, imposter syndrome and more!

Scottish Conservatives' leadership candidate Murdo Fraser sits down with Podlitical. The MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife sets out his vision for the Scottish Conservatives if he wins the leadership contest, including why the party needs to be "brave" to succeed in the 2026 Holyrood election, why he believes the messaging on independence has "lost its currency" with voters, as well as why he thinks former leader Ruth Davidson's comments on the contest were "not helpful", and how he felt excluded from decisions under the leadership of Douglas Ross.For a range of political interviews, subscribe to Podlitical on BBC Sounds.

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) 

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    

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.   

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.       

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.    

Baroness Tanni-Grey Thompson is one of Britain's most successful athletes, having won 16 Paralympic medals, including 11 golds. In part two of our conversation, we talk about what Tanni has learnt from moving from being a elite athlete to working in the House of Lords...as well as the wisdom her father gave her, when he told her to think of herself as a 'Venn Diagram'. This is the last episode of our current season. All of our episodes, from every season, are available now and we have a fantastic variety of guests for you to explore if you haven't heard them already including George Alagiah, Richard Curtis, Amber Rudd, The Reverend Richard Coles and Ruth Davidson.This epsiode was produced by Red Bicycle. 

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.      

As part of season three, this is a special compilation episode featuring guests from season one and two. In the last couple of years we have had many inspiring conversations with people including Richard Curtis, the late George Alagiah, Amber Rudd, Sian Williams, David Baddiel and many more. You can listen to all of these episodes on our website - www.desperatelyseekingwisdom.com - or whereever you get your podcasts.  But to give you a taste of these conversations, we've compiled a collection of some of the most memorable insights from our guests. First-up, wisdom. What rules do each of these guests live by?This compilation features the following people:Matt Forde, George Alagiah, Isobel Hardman, Ruth Davidson, Reverend Richard Coles, John Simpson, Richard Curtis, Tanya and Nadim Ednan-Laperous, Sian Williams and Kenny Imafidon. 

Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Labour's Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Ruth Davidson, look at some of the big politics stories of the week. They say it's Tory donor Frank Hester who's had an "electoral dysfunction" this week after he apologised for comments he made about MP Diane Abbott. Almost a day after the revelations, the prime minister said they were "racist and wrong" - but hasn't suggested returning the £10m to the businessman. Mr Hester insists he is not a racist. The Reform Party will be the ones feeling "on top" after Lee Anderson left the Tories to join them – but Jess, Beth and Ruth discuss how much momentum that will really give the party in an election.   Plus, Electoral Dysfunction listeners get advice on how to engage young people in politics, and where would you even get started if you fancied a political job?   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.    

The fall-out from the Budget, Donald Trump at Super Tuesday and whether Westminster is paying enough attention to your local council's financial woes; all are up for discussion in this week's episode of Electoral Dysfunction. Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Labour's Birmingham Yardley MP Jess Phillips and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives, Ruth Davidson, look at the political figures who've got on top this week – and where there's a total dysfunction. 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.

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.

With Stuart off on his book tour (rock 'n roll), Eamonn is joined by Catriona Stewart and Simon Pia for a great discussion on the week's stories. This week we've included questions by John Nichol and Alex MacDonald. Recommendations: Eamonn The Long Way Up Best friends Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, reunite for Long Way Up, after more than a decade since their last motorbike adventure around the world. Covering 13,000 miles over 100 days through 16 border crossings and 13 countries, starting from the city of Ushuaia at the tip of South America, Ewan and Charley journey through the glorious and underexposed landscapes of South and Central America. Using cutting-edge technology on the back of their prototype electric Harley-Davidsons, the new series follows Ewan and Charley as they journey through Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and up through Colombia, Central America, Mexico and the USA. Also joining them are their longtime collaborators, directors David Alexanian and Russ Malkin, following them in their electric Rivians. https://tv.apple.com/us/show/long-way-up/umc.cmc.1nv0tluok21c2f8549mdjqdnh  Simon Curb Your Enthusiasm Larry David stars as an over-the-top version of himself in this comedy series the shows how seemingly trivial details of day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. https://www.nowtv.com/watch/curb-your-enthusiasm/iYEQZ2uDbPiuTXRbUUJCcA?DCMP=knc-google:nc_ents&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA8YyuBhBSEiwA5R3-E12wUhtETCYFiZ9J7czZ9lBujNDwaQzL5_xUjTqAFdk4VcjZB3-3MxoCXYwQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds Catriona A Teen's fatal plunge in to the London Underworld After Zac Brettler mysteriously plummeted into the Thames, his grieving parents discovered that he'd been posing as an oligarch's son. Would the police help them solve the puzzle of his death? https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/02/12/a-teens-fatal-plunge-into-the-london-underworld  Electoral Disfunction Beth Rigby, Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson team up for a new political podcast from Sky News https://news.sky.com/story/electoral-dysfunction-beth-rigby-jess-phillips-and-ruth-davidson-team-up-for-a-new-political-podcast-from-sky-news-13065409 

In their book What I Wish I'd Known When I Was Young, they interview the likes of Ruth Davidson and Mary Portas and explore the psychology behind their experiences. Hayley is joined by Alice Thomson and also by the science writer David Robson, who investigates the potential issues with the psychological concept of Post-Traumatic Growth. The latest political workplace scandal centres around Plaid Cymru in Wales where the party's leader Adam Price has resigned after a report described it as being a toxic workplace with evidence of misogyny, harassment and bullying. But such claims are or have been found in all the main political parties despite each putting codes of conducts and complaints procedures to address concerns in these areas. Are behaviours like bullying and abusive behaviour concentrated in certain work places, whether its politics, or institutions like the police or fire service? We hear from the former Welsh Assembly politician Bethan Sayed about the situation facing her former party Plaid Cymru and also to the journalist Kate Maltby, Dr Nicola Thomas from the Institute of Work Psychology at the University of Sheffield and Baroness Dame Louise Casey who conducted a review into the Metropolitan Police. Cinematic feminist pioneer Nina Menkes speaks about her new docu-film about the objectification of women in film, and the male gaze, called Brainwashed: Sex-Power-Camera. And the issue of when to allow your children to get a mobile phone with Molly Kingsley from the campaign group UsForThem. Presenter: Hayley Hassall Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Manager: Bob Nettles

The former leader of the Scottish Conservatives is on phenomenal form as she gives her heartfelt, considered and hilarious take on the state of Scottish and British politics. This is gripping from start to finish. Ruth is just as passionate taking on her own side's failings as she is those of her opponents, making this a thrilling listen. It's also emotional as Ruth talks about her son and parents. With Ruth, you're never far away from a crazy story and she some tales that no-one else in politics will have. It's a riot. Enjoy!Buy tickets to The Political Party, live at The Duchess Theatre here: https://nimaxtheatres.com/shows/the-political-party-with-matt-forde/Forthcoming guests include:17 April: Jess Phillips22 May: David Blunkett5 June: Philip Hammond3 July: Joe LycettPlus more to be announced! Follow @mattforde on Twitter for the latest newsEmail the show: politicalpartypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jacinda Ardern's resignation as New Zealand's PM this month came as a surprise to millions around the world. When she came to office in 2017, she stuck out as a contrast to populist leaders that dominated the global scene at the time. To some, she was a progressive female icon. She had to contend with intense public scrutiny throughout her journey, from announcing her pregnancy just months after taking office to her decision to take six weeks of maternity leave, which sparked debate on whether it was too short. Former prime minister Helen Clark, New Zealand's first female elected leader, said Ardern faced “unprecedented” attacks during her tenure. Only 26% of the world's politicians are women. The three most commonly held portfolios by women ministers are still: Family, children and youth. So what are the challenges of being a woman at the top of politics? Are female political leaders under more scrutiny than men? And what can be done to encourage more women into top roles in government? Paul Henley is joined by a panel of experts: Rosie Campbell, professor of politics and Director of the Global Institute for Women's Leadership at Kings College, London. Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia and winner of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize. Also featuring Ruth Davidson, former leader of the Scottish Conservative Party. Photo: New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern addresses the Lowy Institute in Sydney, Australia, July 7, 2022. Dean Lewins/Pool via REUTERS Producers: Pandita Lorenz and Ellen Otzen