Electoral Dysfunction Insider

Russell Brand, David Walliams and the return of MeToo

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 05:00:00 +0000

David Walliams has been accused of sexual misconduct, just days after fellow entertainer Russell Brand, was sentenced to more than ten years in prison after being convicted of rape and sexual assault.

David Walliams has denied accusations of sexual misconduct.

Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson discuss whether we’re in the midst of a cultural sea change and if this moment will act as a ‘reckoning’ for powerful men.

Plus, how much responsibility do employers have to keep young employees safe at work?

WARNING: This episode contains discussions of rape, sexual assault and harassment. You can find resources from Rape Crisis here.

Click here to send Beth, Ruth, Harriet and Jess your question for our London live show – tickets are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Russell Brand and the reality of rape trials

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 10:30:00 +0000

In the wake of comedian Russell Brand’s conviction for rape and sexual assault – Jess Phillips, Ruth Davidson and Beth Rigby discuss how rape trials actually work in the UK, and why so many victims end up feeling like they’re the one in the dock.

Plus, they consider why rape myths continue to persist in courtrooms, how the legal system is used to silence victims, and why so few cases make it to trial in the first place.

So, as Andy Burnham says his Government will “constantly look” at how rape trials are conducted, will this case prove to be a turning point for victims?

Warning: This episode contains discussion of rape and sexual assault. For details of how to contact Rape Crisis click here.

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

What can Andy Burnham learn from Donald Trump?

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 05:00:00 +0000

If Andy Burnham fails to deliver on the cost of living, will he end up just as unpopular as Donald Trump?

Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman dissect what the US midterms can teach the Labour party, and why big money doesn’t always translate into big wins.

Plus, they delve into Shabana Mahmood’s immigration reforms – including whether she’s silenced her Labour critics on this for good, and if it’s fair to accuse her of a U-turn.

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Members Q&A: Do MPs know what they're voting for?

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson answer your questions – including whether Andy Burnham is just another Nigel Farage, if Brexit can be reversed without another referendum, and how often MPs have “no idea” what they’re voting on in the commons.

Plus, would Kemi Badenoch double back on devolution in Scotland – and Ruth explains why political parties need to learn the “language” of Scottish politics.

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Nothing left to tax – are painful cuts on the way?

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 05:00:00 +0000

It’s the first budget of the Andy Burnham Government – but Chancellor John Healey’s been accused of kicking important decisions around welfare spending and defense into the long grass.

So did John Healey play it too safe, or was he wise to try and avoid market and political upset?

Beth Rigby, Harriet Harman and Gillian Keegan give their verdicts on the budget – and discuss whether John Healey was being too ‘laddy’ when he was filmed downing a pint at the pub afterwards.

Plus, former Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones joins the pod to give his assessment.

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

The secret life of the budget

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 13:00:00 +0000

When is the budget finalised - and is it now too late for John Healey to make changes?

James Nation, a special advisor to Rishi Sunak when he was chancellor, joins Beth Rigby and Harriet Harman to break down how a budget is formulated, and just how much can go wrong at the very last minute.

Plus, Harriet looks back at her own experiences battling with then-chancellor Gordon Brown - and why she wishes she had made more of a fuss about cuts in her department.

And was Andy Burnham wrong to make an appearance on Gogglebox?

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Could Andy Burnham come unstuck on immigration and welfare?

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 05:00:00 +0100

It’s been almost 100 days since Andy Burnham became PM, but do the people who voted him in in Makerfield feel he has been living up to their expectations – and do they think he will be able to take on the electoral minefields of immigration and welfare policy?

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman are joined by polling expert Luke Tryl, who has been speaking to ordinary voters to take the temperature of the nation.

Plus – did the government make the right call in allowing drilling at the Jackdaw gas field to go ahead? And will Rosebank be the next project to get the green light?

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Inside the art of the political leak

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:50:00 +0100

Andy Burnham's first budget is next week, and his chancellor, John Healey, has launched a 'military-style' crackdown on anything leaking beforehand.

Why? Possibly because Rachel Reeves's budget last year saw so many leaks to the media that the Speaker called her out for it... and that was before the infamous publication of the full budget on the OBR's website before she had even got to her feet.

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Jess Phillips lift the lid on how political leaks really work.

Who plants a story, what is "kite-flying", and how do journalists know when a source is telling the truth?

The three of them share insider secrets of leaking - and how it can make or break a government. Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Does Andy Burnham know enough about AI?

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Is the UK Government ready for artificial intelligence (AI) – and will there be any jobs left for the next generation?

Former technology secretary Liz Kendall joins Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman to discuss her push to get the UK to the forefront of AI development – and tackle some of the fears of the public.

Plus, she reflects on her time in the Department for Work and Pensions, and why she wasn’t able to get her welfare reforms through.

And, closing out conference season, Beth, Ruth and Harriet discuss the Scottish National Party, and why they’re making they’re making another big push for a second referendum.

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Is Andy Burnham about to get his first big test?

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Andy Burnham says he is in "complete solidarity" with Volodymyr Zelenskyy - but will he risk standing up to Donald Trump over his diesel deal with Vladimir Putin?

Jess Phillips, Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson discuss whether the PM can afford to take a hard line with Trump, or if European dependency on US military support will force him to adopt a softer approach.

Plus, is Burnham gearing up to try and take the UK back into the EU?

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Has Zack Polanski’s Green bubble burst?

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 15:10:00 +0100

No matter how they try to spin it - it's been a difficult week for Zack Polanski's Green Party.

The party leader didn't win the by-election to become the MP for Holborn and St Pancras (Sir Keir Starmer's former seat), losing to Labour's Sagal Abdi-Wali, in the week his party faced huge criticism over a motion passed at their autumn conference.

So how does the Green's "Zionism is racism" motion affect Polanski's future? Did it have a part to play in him losing the by-election? Or is Prime Minister Andy Burnham's popularity - the so-called "Burnham bounce" - behind the fade in the Green Party's popularity?

Beth, Ruth and Harriet are joined by More in Common's Luke Tryl to go through the detail and reflect on Kemi Badenoch's speech at the Conservative Party conference and her divisive inheritance tax policy.

Tickets for our London live show are available now, join us on 26 November: https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/electoral-dysfunction-live/book/1391434/

James Cleverly: ‘Donald Trump is wrong’ about London

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 11:00:00 +0100

Sir James Cleverly joins Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson at Conservative party conference to discuss his bid to become the next mayor of London.

But with the Tories trailing in third place in the polls, does he think he can turn the party’s fortunes around?

Plus, he gives his verdict on Reform UK MP Suella Braverman’s take on Englishness - accusing her of amplifying ‘vile views’.

Live show tickets are on sale NOW for members – your 15% off code and all the other details are here: https://skynews.supportingcast.fm/posts/edlivecode

Andy Burnham draws his battle lines

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 05:30:00 +0100

Andy Burnham set out his stall during an emotional speech at the Labour Party conference – pledging to scrap the triple lock, create a national care service, and reform the first-past-the-post voting system.

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman discuss whether he can deliver on his promises, and if the odds of an early election have just shortened.

And has he inadvertently given Kemi Badenoch her attack lines for the Conservative Party conference?

Live show tickets are on sale NOW for members – your 15% off code and all the other details are here: https://skynews.supportingcast.fm/posts/edlivecode

Angela Rayner: 'People make mistakes'

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 13:45:00 +0100

Angela Rayner is back on the podcast at the Labour Party conference with Beth, Harriet and Jess. In this special members’ episode, she opens up about the toughest year of her political career and the humiliation she felt being on wall-to-wall news coverage, after she resigned from government over her tax affairs.

But now she’s back in cabinet, so how different is Andy Burnham from Sir Keir Starmer? And did she feel let down by her old boss?

And the all-important question – how many vapes would Jess Phillips and Angela Rayner need in a survival kit...?

Live show tickets are on sale NOW for members – your 15% off code and all the other details are here: https://skynews.supportingcast.fm/posts/edlivecode

Can Andy Burnham make Britain believe again?

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Can Andy Burnham bring back hope – or is he all style and no substance?

Following the PM’s meeting with Donald Trump, Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman discuss whether Burnham’s leadership has brought about a sense of change in the Labour party – and the country – and make their predictions ahead of Labour Party conference next week.

Plus – are the Liberal Democrats irrelevant on the national stage, despite being the third biggest party at Westminster?

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Does Andy Burnham have the guts to stand up to Donald Trump?

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 12:00:00 +0100

Andy Burnham and Donald Trump are set to come face to face for the first time at the UN General Assembly this week in New York City.

Burnham says he wants to make progress on AI and the conflict in the Middle East, but could the president’s unpredictability end up scuppering his plans?

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman discuss whether the new PM can get results, and if he will have an easier time managing Trump than Sir Keir Starmer did, given the president’s waning popularity in the US.

If you'd like to tell Beth, Ruth and Harriet what's on your bucket list, click here.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Is the government doing anything to stop AI killing us all?

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +0100

The government needs to step up and properly regulate AI - that’s what Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy told the podcast - saying we can expect to hear more about it soon.

She’s on the podcast this week talking to Beth after we’ve heard warnings that AI “could kill us all by the end of the decade”. Lisa Nandy also reflects on the online safety act - are the tech companies taking the UK government seriously?

Beth also gets her take on the growing row over plans to house asylum seekers at a former military site near Piddington, Oxfordshire - the village of 300 people who held a referendum this week to leave the UK.

So who gets the final say when national policy clashes with local democracy?

Beth, Harriet and Ruth debate whether the government needs to rethink its plans on housing asylum seekers, why some communities feel unheard, and how immigration is becoming a defining battleground in British politics.

Plus - we have an exciting announcement for our Dysfunctioners!

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Could Labour be guilty of double standards over Reform’s mega-donations?

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 14:50:00 +0100

Reform are dominating the headlines once again with news about party funding - this time, after receiving two eye-watering sums from cryptobillionaires Ben Delo and Christopher Harborne.

Labour have criticised the party and are working on legislation that could make the donations illegal. But are they being hypocritical?

Ruth raises questions over Labour’s double standards when it comes to Union support. Meanwhile, Jess explains what the thinking is inside the party, particularly from Angela Rayner. Meanwhile, Beth, Jess and Ruth dig into whether the mega-donations could prove to be an inflection point for British political spending.

Also, in a visit to Dublin last weekend, Donald Trump said he would love to see a united Ireland. Beth discusses the ripples this could have amongst Americans who worked on the Good Friday agreement.

And Ruth reflects on the current state of the nations, as nationalist leaders signed an agreement saying that the UK government should "prepare" for constitutional change.

To watch Ruth in action at Wimbledon, head to the forum here:

https://skynews.supportingcast.fm/posts/electoral-dysfunction-bucketlist

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Why did Andy Burnham choose Israel for his biggest moment yet?

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Ed Milliband made a bold statement in the Commons this week - UK government sanctions on Israeli settlements. But is there more to the timing of this?

Harriet makes the case for why it's principled rather than political, and Beth, Ruth and Harriet dig into another question underneath the policy - is this a rebuke of Keir Starmer, and did his government simply not move fast enough?

And the response from Britain's Jewish community, and whether Ed Miliband needs to do more on this now.

We also go further into Reform's woes, following on from our members' episode this week.

As the Metropolitan Police widens its investigation into party donations after Channel 4's undercover documentary, former Conservative-turned-Reform member Tim Montgomerie joins the ladies fresh from quitting the party to explain why he thinks the court around leader Nigel Farage is starting to crack, and whether Reform has already peaked.

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Inside Reform’s ‘scandalous’ weekend: Is Nigel Farage in trouble?

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Beth Rigby has just returned from Reform UK's annual conference... but says the mood there was "tense" and "unpleasant".

Jess Phillips and Ruth Davidson join her to discuss whether Reform UK is still a "Government-in-waiting" - or if fresh allegations from an undercover Channel 4 report will sink them in the polls.

Plus – can new chancellor John Healey persuade the country that he can deliver on the economy?

Reform UK, Dan Jukes, James Orr and Nigel Farage all deny any wrongdoing.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

What changes if Zack Polanski is an MP?

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Could Zack Polanski win in the St Pancras and Holborn by-election – and how crushing would a loss be to the Green Party’s momentum?

Harriet Harman, Ruth Davidson and Beth Rigby discuss – and mull over whether the whole thing will be an early headache for Andy Burnham, or a chance to prove he can regain the confidence of young left-wing voters.

Plus – Harriet responds to criticism from Kemi Badenoch after she talked on our episode earlier this week about Claire Coutinho's shadow cabinet promotion while on maternity leave. She'd joked that the leader deserves a 'woke badge'. Let us know what you think on the forum

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Did Kemi Badenoch just get a 'woke badge'?

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:00:00 +0100

Kemi Badenoch has reshuffled her shadow cabinet, ousting a number of Tory big beasts in the process.

Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman discuss whether Badenoch’s new top team will be able to move the party on from the “total annihilation” they faced back in 2024.

Plus, Harriet argues the reshuffle proves Kemi Badenoch is more “woke” than she might like to think.

And on this episode, the ladies give their verdict on whether it’s time to ban mobile phones from the chamber during PMQs.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

'A bloodsport': Were journalists to blame for Keir Starmer’s downfall?

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Do lobby journalists bear some responsibility for the collapse of the Starmer Government – or were they simply doing their jobs?

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman discuss whether the chaos around Keir Starmer turned into “a game” for the media - and unpack what it’s like to cover a Prime Minister’s last days in office.

Plus – the ladies answer more of your questions, including what Kemi Badenoch can do to rebuild the Tory party’s electoral chances.

This episode was recorded in June.

You can read Michael Savage’s piece in The Guardian here.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

'Westminster is addicted to drama': Can Andy Burnham keep his MPs happy?

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 13:00:00 +0100

Andy Burnham’s honeymoon might be coming to a close as he faces MPs properly next week for the first time. He’s had a month to settle in, but has that left a lot of people expecting an awful lot of him? Too much even?

So how should Andy Burnham approach his first-ever PMQs – and will he be tested by Kemi Badenoch? Or will an attack from her only leave the PM riding high?

Ruth Davidson and Jess Phillips discuss whether Andy Burnham will be able to maintain a ‘buoyant’ feeling on the Labour benches.

Plus – Jess and Ruth share their views on a controversial Home Office booklet being handed out to asylum seekers.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

How ‘mega-donors’ are buying political influence... and your algorithm

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +0100

How are our political parties funded – and is it time for a cap on donations?

Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman pull back the curtain on political donations – and discuss whether bots astroturfing social media are rapidly becoming a major threat to democracy.

Author and journalist Geoghegan joins the pod to explain how we got here and what exactly is going on online, while former Attorney General Dominic Grieve breaks down how the Government tries to regulate money in politics.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

The impossible job of being a Prime Minister’s wife

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 13:30:00 +0100

On the day her husband became prime minister, Marie-France Van Heel found herself at the centre of an internet meltdown over her dress... but could she ever have got it right, or is misogyny always part and parcel of being a politician’s wife?

Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman answer your questions from the members’ forum – covering everything from the fashion police at Westminster to whether Andy Burnham should back proportional representation.

And if you’d like your question to feature on a future episode – please share it to the members' forum, linked below.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

What does Nigel Farage’s win in Clacton actually prove?

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 15:00:00 +0100

Nigel Farage is an MP once again as he was victorious in the Clacton by-election, winning 63% of the vote and overcoming his main competitor - Count Binface.

But has the vote left us with more questions than answers? And why didn’t Farage go to the count?

Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman are joined by pollster Luke Tryl, executive director of More In Common, to dissect Farage’s victory.

Plus, Harriet explains what happens next when it comes to the parliamentary standards' investigation into Farage's finances, and why she thinks another by-election could be imminent.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Can Andy Burnham get it right on prisons?

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:05:00 +0100

Andy Burnham is back from his holiday and straight into his first big test as Prime Minister - a heated row over plans to release some offenders early to free up prison space. So how is he handling it?

Jess Phillips gives the inside track on the scheme that was created under the last government when she was in the home office. So what does she think should happen to PC Adrew Harper's killers? Does she think it’s working for victims of crime? And how much faith does she have in Andy Burnham’s top team? Also – Jess opens up to Ruth Davidson about her personal experiences with offenders.

She also answers one of your questions from the forum about her interview with Beth last week.

And seeing as it’s August, Jess and Ruth reminisce on some of their favourite tales of Prime Ministers going on holiday... as well as the times they’ve been called back to politics.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

'I hated it': Jess Phillips on life inside Keir Starmer's government

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Jess Phillips joins Beth Rigby to reflect on her time as a minister under Keir Starmer.

And she asks whether Andy Burnham can fulfil the Labour manifesto commitment to halve violence against women and girls in a decade. Are disinterested government departments to blame for slow progress?

Plus, why did Gaza nearly cost Jess her Birmingham Yardley seat, and will the row over Labour’s policy in the Middle East continue to plague inner-city MPs?

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

‘It’s a workplace’: Is it time to ban boozing in Parliament?

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 13:00:00 +0100

Is it time to end taxpayer-funded subsidies on food and booze in the House of Commons – and did Green MP Hannah Spencer have a point when she called out MPs turning up drunk to vote?

Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson discuss as they dive into listener questions from the members' forum.

Also up for debate – what will Rachel Reeves do next, will Andy Burnham’s big plans for devolution work... and should Keir Starmer get cracking on his memoirs?

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

'Intensely unpopular': Was Keir Starmer doomed from the start?

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Beth Rigby and Harriet Harman dive into what went wrong for Sir Keir Starmer – and why the public turned against him so quickly.

And Harriet asks if the Labour party might, in retrospect, have been able to ride out those disastrous local election results without changing its leader.

Plus – why has the Labour party waited so long for a female leader, and is a woman-only shortlist the answer?

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Can Andy Burnham slash the welfare bill?

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 12:05:00 +0100

Andy Burnham has vowed to “get serious” about cutting the welfare bill and getting more young people into work.

But will he face the same structural and political roadblocks that hindered Sir Keir Starmer's bid to do the same?

Ruth Davidson and Ayesha Hazarika discuss whether Andy Burnham will have better luck than his predecessor - and if having former welfare rebels as close allies will help or hinder him.

Plus - how should the new prime minister approach his relationship with Donald Trump?

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Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Is the Burnham government starting to feel like The Traitors?

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0100

In appointing his new cabinet Andy Burnham has removed many of Keir Starmer's faithfuls, including previously key figures like Rachel Reeves and Darren Jones.

And critics feel 'traitors' who had tried to destabilise the recently departed PM are being rewarded for their disloyalty.

Former Scottish Labour leader, Anas Sarwar, called for Starmer to go back in February. Now he's off to the Lords for a ministerial job under Burnham.

At the Electoral Dysfunction Round Table, Beth Rigby asks Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson how Burnham can deal with the bad blood his choices have created. Harriet wants him to 'build bridges' with those he ousted.

We also have lots of questions from Dysfunctioners about a big political week.

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Did a "difficult woman" upset Andy Burnham's cabinet plans?

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0100

We didn't get details of Andy Burnham's top team until most people had gone to bed... so why did it take so long?

Beth, Jess, Harriet and Ruth discuss whether some ministers negotiated for different jobs – and whether nobody wanted to be justice secretary.

Harriet also has stern words for "bitter" former cabinet ministers who are criticising the new government from the sidelines.

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Has Starmer done Burnham any favours?

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0100

We're in a transition as Andy Burnham becomes Labour leader three days before he becomes Prime Minister.

In Ukraine, Beth Rigby asks the outgoing PM, Keir Starmer, about why he chose to see President Zelenskyy on his final foreign trip.

Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman hold the Electoral Dysfunction fort back home.

They weigh up whether Burnham should favour ability over popularity in his new cabinet - and consider how the polls are going for Burnham's own approval rating as he prepares to enter Number 10, with the help of Sky News' election analyst Rob Ford.

To see Beth's full interview with Keir Starmer, go here

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What can Keir Starmer learn from Theresa May and Tony Blair?

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0100

What is Keir Starmer’s legacy – and will it be better or worse than his predecessors in Number 10?

As Starmer makes way for Andy Burnham, Beth, Ruth and Harriet discuss how much political leaders think about their place in the history books, and ask whether writing a memoir is just a "vanity project".

Plus, Harriet looks back on her memories of 20 years in the Commons with Ann Widdecombe.

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Could Farage's by-election plan backfire?

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Rachel Reeves says if Nigel Farage wants to "spend the summer arguing with a bin" then that's up to him.

The Reform leader triggered a by-election by resigning this week. He is standing again to fight for the seat. Count Binface is one of those planning to stand against him in Clacton but the main parties won't be there.

Beth, Ruth and Harriet dig into whether there are cracks in Farage's plan to reset the narrative after claims about his financial arrangements. Plus, Beth is fresh off the prime minister's plane from Turkey where Sir Keir Starmer was given an illegal gift he couldn't bring back with him.

Andy Burnham's also promised MPs an overhaul in party culture. Harriet and Ruth debate the whether the changes will ever happen.

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As of July 9th, we’re aware of the following people and parties planning to stand in the Clacton by-election:

Adham Alkhatip, Forward Party

Count Binface, Independent

Piers Corbyn, Independent

Nigel Farage, Reform

Laurence Fox, Reclaim Party

Ollie Granger, Independent

Luke Worley, Independent

Can Nigel Farage face down his critics?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:15:00 +0100

Is the shine coming off for Nigel Farage – or can the “comeback kid” shake off another political scandal?

The Reform UK leader is facing intense scrutiny over reports in the Sunday Times that he was given funding by crypto-entrepreneur and convicted wire fraudster George Cottrell in the year before he became an MP.

In this subscribers' episode, Beth, Ruth and Jess dive into what MPs are expected to declare, and whether this row will hurt Reform UK in the polls.

Plus, what can Andy Burnham learn from Harry Kane?

Nigel Farage's spokesperson has denied allegations that the Reform leader could be in breach of parliamentary rules – and Nigel Farage has said he is considering legal action against the Sunday Times.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Will women get a seat at Andy Burnham’s table?

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0100

The New Labour band might be getting back together around Andy Burnham's cabinet table - good for nostalgia, but the women have other thoughts if there are set to be two Milibands in the great offices of state and no women.

This week, Harriet tells Beth and Ruth this week that trust is broken between female Labour MPs and the top of the party, and how they are expecting hard proof from Burnham that he sees them equally, because words are not enough anymore.

And as Sir Keir Starmer leaves Burnham with a black hole in his budget as a parting gift - how can Burnham pay for it? And is this going to be a return of the welfare bill rebels?

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

No questions, please: Inside Burnham’s media strategy

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0100

He’s been accused of avoiding scrutiny – but what is behind Andy Burnham’s strategy with the media? He’s taking no questions and doing very few interviews – so is it a smart way of controlling the narrative? Or is his path to power going unchecked?

Beth was in the room for his big speech on Monday and reveals what went on behind the scenes. Plus, she asks Ruth and Harriet whether his policies are just Starmer 2.0 with a bit more charisma.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Can Andy Burnham really govern without an election?

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Andy Burnham is closing in on Downing Street as Nigel Farage endures a tricky political week. But does Burnham actually have a mandate to be Prime Minister? Or should we have a general election?

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman give their takes on what Burnham's first 100 Days could look like and who might be in his cabinet, including the all-important role of chancellor. Harriet says one of her picks for the job has to prove his credibility.

And with more scrutiny on Nigel Farage’s £5 million gift from Christopher Harborne – how is Farage reacting?

Farage has said he is "absolutely convinced I've done nothing wrong in any way at all" and he has "taken zero in personal expenses" since being elected in July 2024

"I'm very careful and very cautious about these things," he said. "I believe it to be a wholly private matter, the standards commissioner may take a different view."

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

How Labour is preparing for Andy Burnham

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:55:00 +0100

“Labour loves a row” - Jess Phillips as Keir Starmer exits and Andy Burnham prepares for the top job.

In this subscribers'’ episode, Beth, Ruth and Jess dive into the drama, the deal-making and the jockeying behind the scenes after the Prime Minister resigned yesterday.

They discuss Burnham's likely coronation, Starmer's legacy, the MPs already lining up behind the new regime, and why Jess thinks Labour's next leader needs to do something Starmer never quite managed...

Plus, will we see a return to government for Jess?

To chat on the members' forum aka the Interchange, click here.

Keir Starmer resigns. What’s next?

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 15:40:00 +0100

The prime minister has resigned after less than two years in Downing Street.

In this extra episode, Beth Rigby and Harriet Harman react to a dramatic morning in Westminster and ask the question now hanging over Labour: has the party failed, or is this the reset it desperately needed? And could Andy Burnham be the answer?

Beth takes listeners inside the final hours of Starmer's premiership, from cabinet pressure to the emotional resignation speech on the steps of Number 10.

Harriet reflects on Sir Keir’s legacy and why Labour MPs decided he couldn’t lead them into the next election. And did Nigel Farage play a part in Starmer’s departure?

With Andy Burnham now the overwhelming favourite to succeed him, they also discuss what happens next, whether Labour is heading for a coronation rather than a contest, and if Burnham can succeed where Starmer could not.

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

Sky News Insider requires a paid subscription and is available to UK listeners aged 18 and over.

‘Andy Burnham is going to be Prime Minister’

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 18:05:00 +0100

Andy Burnham is coming back to Westminster – is he about to become prime minister? And could Sir Keir Starmer be in denial?

After a stunning victory in the Makerfield by-election, Burnham has gone from mayor of Greater Manchester to Labour MP, instantly kickstarting the speculation about a challenge to Starmer's leadership.

So is this the beginning of the end for Starmer and will his MPs turn against him? Harriet has the lowdown from inside the Labour party – so how quickly will it kick off?

Beth Rigby has raced back from Makerfield to join Harriet Harman and Ruth Davidson as they dissect one of the most consequential by-election results in recent political history and they’re answering some of your questions along the way.

Plus, Ruth has the latest from Scotland after the by-elections in Aberdeen South and Arbroath and Broughty Ferry. Is this a change in fortune for the Tories?

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

Share comments and questions in our community forum, the Insider Interchange, here: skynews.supportingcast.fm/community

Inside Starmer's social media ban: why it took so long

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0100

It’s only the first members’ only episode of Electoral Dysfunction! And for one week only, you get all FOUR podcast hosts as Jess Phillips makes her return, alongside Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson and Harriet Harman.

The ladies discuss Keir Starmer’s social media ban for under-16s – Jess tells all from her time inside the government trying to get this over the line. Listen to hear why she thinks it took so long.

Plus – as the PM faces down a possible leadership contest – will this be his legacy?

Starting next week, Jess Phillips and Harriet Harman will appear on alternating extra episodes of the members’ only Electoral Dysfunction episodes.

You can find a full list of candidates standing in Makerfield, Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, and Aberdeen South on the Electoral Commission website here.

More resignations for Keir Starmer: can it get any worse?

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0100

As we sat down to get voters’ verdicts on the prime minister in Makerfield, he suffered yet another massive headache – his Defence Secretary, John Healey, resigned. And a few hours later, two more resignations. How weak is Keir Starmer now? And is this a problem for the safety of the UK?

Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson, and Harriet Harman hear from locals voting next week - do they think Andy Burnham is destined for Number 10? What about the other parties’ ambitions for the area, and what do they make of all the attention they’ve been getting lately?

Plus – the ladies have an announcement - you’ll have to listen through to the end to find out...

For a full list of candidates standing in Makerfield, visit the Electoral Commission website.

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

And if you want to hear more about Ed Conway’s Stuff Matters podcast, go to podfollow.com/stuff- matters

Sky News Insider requires a paid subscription and is available to UK listeners aged 18 and over.

Is Nigel Farage exploiting Henry Nowak’s murder?

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0100

"Pure cold rage": Will Nigel Farage regret his intervention over the murder of Henry Nowak?

Beth, Ruth and Harriet discuss whether Farage is pandering to the far right, or if he has a point about "two-tier policing" in Britain.

And, as Nicola Sturgeon attempts to distance herself from her estranged husband Peter Murrell – Ruth asks if her legacy is now forever tarnished.

Nicola Sturgeon has said she was “completely cleared and exonerated” by police and that she had been “misled” and “deceived” by Murrell.

For a full list of candidates standing in Makerfield, visit the Electoral Commission website.

And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth, and Harriet on YouTube.

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

Andy Burnham on Britain’s future... and his own

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0100

Beth has a punchy exclusive interview with Andy Burnham for this extra episode of Electoral Dysfunction.

Saying the quiet bit out loud, Beth asks if Burnham is using this as his path to Number 10 Downing Street or whether he would be loyal as an MP and serve in Keir Starmer’s cabinet? You might want to watch on YouTube to see his response...

She also asks how Burnham's ideas for the country are different to what we already have in government.

Plus, what does the current Mayor of Greater Manchester think about Reform and Nigel Farage’s chances in a future Mayoral race after the party did so well at the local elections there?

And this race to be an MP isn't just about Andy Burnham – whilst Beth is in Makerfield, she’s interviewing a number of other candidates too, but Reform and Restore UK’s candidates weren’t available.

For a full list of candidates standing in Makerfield, visit the Electoral Commission website.

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

Why the UK isn’t ungovernable – yet

Fri, 29 May 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Is the UK on its way to becoming ungovernable?

And what does a £5m gift to Nigel Farage from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne tell us about scrutiny and transparency in British politics?

Harriet Harman, Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson discuss in a special live edition of the pod, recorded at the Hay Festival.

Plus, Harriet offers advice to Green Party leader Zack Polanski on how to handle his council tax row - inspired by her own experience being chased by the paparazzi.

For a full list of candidates standing in your area, visit the Electoral Commission website.

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

Who is regulating reality TV? Lessons from MAFS UK

Fri, 22 May 2026 05:00:00 +0100

Reality show Married At First Sight UK on Channel 4 is facing serious allegations this week, so Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson, and Harriet Harman discuss whether more should be done to make reality TV safer – and if MPs ought to get involved.

Plus, with three by-elections coming up, has Andy Burnham’s bid to return to Westminster thrown the constituency of Makerfield into chaos? And why might the North Sea oil reserves become a hot button issue for voters in Aberdeen South?

For a full list of candidates standing in your area, visit the Electoral Commission website.

Channel 4 was approached for comment.

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth, and Harriet on YouTube.

Jess Phillips: Starmer Doesn’t Listen

Tue, 19 May 2026 16:10:00 +0100

Andy Burnham, Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting - the list of potential names to challenge Keir Starmer is growing but the leadership race is not officially on... yet.

Jess Phillips, who resigned from the government this week, tells Beth why she's backing Wes Streeting in a future race and why Andy Burnham needs to be careful he doesn't look entitled as he searches for a parliamentary seat. She also gives a devastating verdict on the prime minister, telling Beth he 'finds it hard to listen" in her first interview since resigning.

Plus, as one Labour MP resigns in Makerfield so Andy Burnham can stand - can the 'King of the North' win a by-election? Or is he gambling his job on a seat he can't win?

And can Keir Starmer keep a lid on it all?

Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.

And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth and Harriet on YouTube.