Electoral Dysfunction

Is this the budget we were promised by Labour? And where will the fallout be for the government in the days and weeks to come? On the day after the first Labour budget in nearly 15 years - and the first ever delivered by a woman - Beth, Ruth and Harriet unpick the numbers and explain why the critics are so upset.They also lift the lid on budget week in Westminster - how do cabinet ministers find out how much money their departments are getting? And how does the leader of the opposition prepare their response? Later, Ruth finally reveals who she's voted for in the Tory leadership race. Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444

In the week that Donald Trump filed a legal case against the Labour Party for alleged “blatant election interference” - Beth, Ruth and Harriet ask whether we should turn a blind eye to the drama, or whether the former President actually has a point. Just how problematic is this for Keir Starmer? Later, Beth interviews Starmer’s former director of strategy, Deborah Mattinson. They discuss whether her gameplan - that helped Labour win the election in July – could get Kamala Harris to the White House next month. This interview was recorded on Tuesday 22nd October. Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

With just under two weeks to go until Labour’s first budget in 15 years, the knives are out with cabinet members complaining to No 10 about cuts to their departments. Should they just accept collective responsibility and keep their heads down? And could Labour be about to break their manifesto pledge if they increase National Insurance contributions for businesses? Later, Beth, Ruth and Harriet examine why the Conservative Party leadership candidates have such different approaches to the media. Which outlets are important in 2024? And is that reflected in the US election? Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Click here to listen to the Disorder podcast: https://podfollow.com/disorder

We wanted to tell you about something new.Sky News and NBC News have joined forces for a weekly podcast - The World with Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim. For the first episode, Yalda is in Jerusalem and Richard is covering events in Lebanon. They discuss what they are seeing and hearing on both sides of the border as the conflict appears to be "spiralling into an abyss". And with the US election now four weeks away, they ask whether the economic and military consequences of the war could determine where it’s Donald Trump or Kamala Harris in the Oval Office. Click here to watch the full episode on YouTube. To get in touch or to share questions for Engel and Hakim, email [email protected]. Electoral Dysfunction is back on Friday.

As Sir Keir Starmer's government hits its first 100 days after a big shake up in Downing Street, Beth, Harriet, and Ruth discuss the impact of Sue Gray's exit as his chief of staff. They also get into the Conservative leadership race now that the Tories have the final two contenders selected. Ruth's man James Cleverly is out – so where is her head at now? And Beth offers the low down on why her interview with the former PM Boris Johnson didn't happen in the end… Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

With the Tory leadership race down to the final four, Beth’s been at Conservative Party conference in Birmingham to watch the ‘beauty parade’ for herself, while Ruth and Harriet predict who will make it to the final two. Back in Westminster, it looks like Sir Keir Starmer may have taken Harriet’s advice when he said he’d pay back £6,000 of gifts he’s received since getting into government, but Harriet thinks Labour need to go further to put this scandal to bed. Plus, Beth has been investigating a question from a listener, about the best smelling politician, and she finally has an answer.Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

With Prime Minister Keir Starmer in New York and the Labour Party conference over, Beth, Ruth and Harriet discuss if it's all been overshadowed by the ongoing freebies row. Harriet suggests Starmer should watch football on TV to end the row, while Beth explains her interview with the prime minister and how it went for her. Plus, Beth, Harriet and Ruth talk about the UK response to the conflict in the Middle East. Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

As the row over Keir Starmer's freebies rumbles on, Beth, Ruth and Harriet discuss if the prime minister can put the issue to bed before the Labour Party conference this weekend. What does the leaking of senior special adviser Sue Gray's salary tell us about tension in the new government? And is Starmer's Rome scheme any different from Sunak's Rwanda plan? Plus, Ruth and Harriet share their best conference stories, along with a few tips for where to find the best parties! For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to: www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

With the winter fuel allowance vote passing in the House of Commons, Beth, Harriet and Ruth discuss the row and government’s approach to dealing with the unpopular policy. They also look at MPs who have second jobs presenting TV shows (or podcasts) and what sort of extra work or broadcast appearances they should, or shouldn’t, be paid for. Plus, with both Harriet and Ruth now in the House of Lords, they discuss how the unelected chamber could be modernised, and if it should even exist. For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to: www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Beth, Harriet and Ruth look at the political fallout from this week's Grenfell Inquiry report, and ask if the government can do more to speed up any prosecutions. Plus, Harriet reveals her surprising connection with one of the Conservative leadership hopefuls. For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Beth and Ruth have some news! They’ve got a new permanent co-host on Electoral Dysfunction. Labour legend and former deputy prime minister Harriet Harman is joining the line up every week to take you behind the curtain of the biggest political stories and answer your questions. This week, they discuss the prime minister’s abrupt end to summer and how he is preparing the country for a busy political autumn. Harriet is also joining Beth and Ruth live on tour. For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Email Beth, Ruth and Harriet at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Ruth and Beth are once again joined by the former Labour MP and ex-shadow culture secretary, Thangam Debbonaire to answer listener questions.They explain the role of special advisers in politics and discuss whether the devolved nations still need their own secretaries of state in Westminster. They also give us a history lesson on PMQs and dissect political messaging around the economy. For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Ruth and Beth are back from their holidays to catch up on the big political stories. This time, they’re joined by former Labour MP and former shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaire. They talk about the riots across England in the last couple of weeks with Thangam saying that Keir Starmer should have called them racist earlier. And Ruth explains why she’s chosen to back James Cleverly in the race to be the next Tory leader. For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

In an episode recorded before their summer break, Beth and Ruth are delving back into the inbox for another "Answer the Question" special. It's Labour's Harriet Harman who is back to help them. They explore why Labour has still not had a female leader while the Conservatives have had three, how the new government might handle the press, and why "heretics" could be banned from the House of Lords. For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ If you’ve got a question you want answering, email Beth and co on [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Beth and Ruth are back with another Answer The Question special, and this time they’re joined by former Labour shadow minister Jonathan Ashworth. They discuss if the media did enough to report on abuse of MPs during the election, reasons young people should be hopeful for the future, and the time Jon was inducted to the privy council by the late Queen... on Zoom. 👉 Click here to follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts 👈 For more information on dates and tickets for our tour, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ If you’ve got a question you want answering, email Beth and co on [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

For information about Electoral Dysfunction Live, go to: https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/ Labour grandee Harriet Harman is back on the podcast and joins Beth and Ruth to unpick Keir Starmer’s first PMQs as Prime Minister. The ladies look ahead to what Chancellor Rachel Reeves is going to say about the state of the country's finances after 14 years of Conservative rule, and Harriet gives her take on the seven Labour rebels on the 2-child benefit cap, and look.Plus, what impact will Kamala Harris have on the Democrats chances of beating Trump's Republicans?Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Beth and Ruth are just popping up in the feed with some news. Hopefully you’ve all got a free night in September! For more information on dates and tickets, go to https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/electoral-dysfunction-live/

Special guest, Labour's Emily Thornberry, joins Beth and Ruth to discuss Sir Keir Starmer's position on the world stage. They examine what was in the King's Speech and talk about the prime minister's meeting of foreign leaders at Blenheim Palace. They also talk about violence against politicians following the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, and Emily shares her own experience while campaigning. Email Beth and Ruth, at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Labour MP and now government minister Jess Phillips is back for one last episode with Beth and Ruth. On this episode they discuss Jess' appointment as a Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Home Office - and why she can't continue with the podcast. They also talk about the Prime Minister's trip to Washington for the NATO summit and questions over whether Joe Biden should pull out of the 2024 US presidential election race. Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Labour MP Jess Phillips is back with Beth and Ruth to un-pick the election results. On this episode they discuss how Jess was heckled when she narrowly held her seat of Birmingham Yardley. They also look at the wider Labour results and talk about Rishi Sunak’s resignation speech, as well as discussing why Reform and the Liberal Democrats took seats from the two main parties. In response to this episode, the Workers Party of Britain said:"Labour are on their way out in Birmingham, because of their betrayal of ordinary people."We will keep banging the drum and rid Labour from this great city."Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika is back with Beth and Ruth for the last few days of the election campaign. On this episode they discuss how Beth is preparing for election night – what constituencies to look out for and they give a listener advice on election snacks. They also discuss the final days of campaigning and why the Tories are attacking Keir Starmer for suggesting he will finish work at 6pm on a Friday night if he becomes Prime Minister. Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

For the final call-up from Jess’ subs bench, Beth and Ruth get their first male co-host – Rylan! The self-confessed politics junkie explains where his interest comes from, why he always keeps Wednesday free for PMQs – and his own experience of interviewing the Prime Minister. Plus, he explains how his own experience in the public eye could help new MPs. And there’s an update on Ruth’s campaign letterbox injury. Email us at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika is back with Beth and Ruth as the election campaign moves towards its final week. On this episode they answer listener questions about Nigel Farage - after the Reform UK leader suggested the West provoked Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while insisting he was not an "apologist or supporter of Putin" - and more on Priti Patel's chances of becoming leader of the Conservative Party. They also discuss the role of Sir Keir Starmer's wife Victoria in the Labour campaign and what her role might be if Labour form the next government. Email Beth, Ruth, and Ayesha at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Beth sits down with the deputy Labour leader, Angela Rayner to talk in detail about the investigation into the sale of her ex-council house and the impact it had on her and her family. They also discuss the row over Diane Abbott and accusations of a purge of Labour’s left. Plus, Angela invites Beth aboard her battle bus as her election campaigning starts to ramp up. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

This week, Beth gets Ruth and Jess's take on what's happening now that Diane Abbott has had the Labour whip restored. The WhatsApps from Beth’s sources keep coming as they're recording. They discuss the strategies behind the Sunak and Starmer campaigns – with one going for headline-grabbing pledges and the other spending the first week focusing on the personal rather than policy. There's news from Jess on her plans for the campaign – and she met a dog named after Ted Heath when she was out door-knocking, so that takes us in only one direction. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

With Westminster still reeling from the prime minister's decision to call a general election on the 4 July, Beth, Jess and Ruth lift the curtain on what was going on in parliament as rumours started to swirl. Who decided to call an election now? Why did Rishi Sunak not have an umbrella? And what kind of campaign will the parties run over the next six weeks? Plus, a listener wants to know if her MP will still be working on her case during the election campaign. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected], 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 [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

Following the defection of the Dover and Deal MP Natalie Elphicke to Labour, Beth, Ruth and Jess discuss the surprise move and whether it could have been handled differently by Sir Keir Starmer. They also talk about Beth's interview with the former immigration minister Robert Jenrick and his warnings about Reform UK. Plus, how significant was the defeat of former Conservative mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street? Beth and Jess were both there to tell the story. And they answer a question on Labour and the Muslim vote, and what the party can do to restore confidence and trust. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.

It’s the morning after the day before for Beth, Ruth and Jess as they pull apart the local election results they have so far. They discuss what big council losses for the Conservatives could mean for the Rishi Sunak narrative. How does the re-election of Ben Houchen as Tees Valley mayor help him? Also – are there some niggles for Labour within the results, especially with Muslim communities? Jess explains what she thinks the impact of the Middle East conflict could be in Birmingham. Plus, all three discuss John Swinney as a contender for Scotland’s first minister. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Warning: some explicit language.

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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], 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. Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Warning: some strong language.

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 [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Warning: some explicit language.

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 [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Warning: some explicit language.

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 [email protected], 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 [email protected], post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Warning: some explicit language.

Following the Rochdale by-election, Sky’s political Editor Beth Rigby, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, Jess Phillips and former leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson discuss what George Galloway’s win means for parliament. They examine the fall out of the by-election and ask why politics is not working for many people. They also look ahead to the budget – predicting what Chancellor Jeremy Hunt might pull out of the bag. A thought-provoking conversation with a healthy dose of fun. Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at [email protected], Tweet Beth @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444. Warning: some explicit language.

Ahead of our first proper Electoral Dysfunction next week, we thought it’s time to share what Beth, Jess and Ruth have been up to in rehearsals. In this special teaser, they explain what the title is all about and what they’ll be trying to do on every episode. And, they get down to the nitty gritty of examining the leaders and their policies – digging deep into what Conservatives might think of their future. There’s a bit of agreement that one of the strongest candidates for the next Tory leader is more obvious than a lot of people may have realised. Jess says the person in question has been “ploughing the furrow” and Beth reckons someone else going “tonto” has really helped them out.Email Beth, Ruth, and Jess at [email protected]

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.Starting on Friday March 1st 2024.Email us: [email protected]

Young mother and former GB youth swimmer, Alexis Quinn, agrees to enter NHS England psychiatric care following a family tragedy. She could never imagine that her three-day admission will turn into a three-year ordeal. Then undiagnosed with autism, and often the subject of 24-hour surveillance as well as long periods in solitary confinement, Alexis descends to the darkest reaches of locked-in, psychiatric care. There, she encounters the kind of threat she never could have imagined in a secure mental health hospital. In a bid to break free, Alexis plots a daring escape. Making it back to her daughter, however, will pit her against some of the most powerful institutions in the State, including the police.This series contains discussions about sexual assault.Narrated by Nicholas Pinnock (Top Boy, Django, For Life). To hear all episodes now, follow Patient 11 on your favourite podcast player.

Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby is joined by Iain Anderson – the chair of LGBT rights charity Stonewall. They discuss issues including how trans and women's rights interact, culture wars and trans people in sport. Email Beth Rigby with your thoughts at [email protected]

Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby is joined by editor of the Health Service Journal, Alistair McLellan as the NHS turns 75. This week Beth has sat down with Health Secretary Steve Barclay and Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting to discuss how their respective parties intend to tackle the issues facing the NHS, from strikes to waiting times. Email Beth Rigby with your thoughts at [email protected]

Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby is joined by Daily Mirror political editor John Stevens to analyse the week's big stories. From former Health Secretary Matt Hancock's appearance at the Covid Inquiry, the Court of Appeal ruling the government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda was unlawful and more fallout from the privileges committee report into Boris Johnson and partygate. Plus, Beth interviews Trainspotting author, Irvine Welsh. Email Beth Rigby with your thoughts at [email protected].