The Bunker – News without the nonsense

As Sunak squirms under questioning, will anti-union legislation save his bacon? Plus, Brazil’s far-right storms the country’s congress – what can we expect next? And we discuss the latest from the US, plus as the family feud of the century as Prince Harry causes a royal furore. Hannah Fearn, columnist and reporter for The I and Independent, joins Andrew Harrison to discuss the week ahead. “If Sunak continues a hardline stance on these strikes, he creates an atmosphere where a general strike is a possibility.” “The length of time everything’s taken has made Sunak’s position more difficult, splintered the party and hurt the country.” “Angry supporters of Bolsonaro are seeing a playbook in the US they are wanting to try and emulate.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Andrew Harrison with Hannah Fearn. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Comparisons to the Winter of Discontent are everywhere. But are these accurate, or even helpful? With an autumn and winter of strikes, high levels of inflation and maxed out energy prices it’s an easy reference to make, but is it lazy? Colin Hay, professor of political sciences at Sciences Po in Paris, joins Andrew Harrison to discuss. “It’s not really the story of a coordinated campaign by union leaders. It was the rank and file rejecting the advice of the union leaders and withdrawing their labour.” I’ve been asked throughout my career if THIS is a return to the Winter of Discontent. This is the first time I haven’t just blanketly said ‘no.’” “Labour has had the ghost of the Winter of Discontent dancing over its corpse in the intervening time.” “It’s quite impressive how much industrial and public sector disruption is currently in place at the moment when you consider how difficult it is to get a legal strike organised.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Andrew Harrison. Producer Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer Kasia Tomasiewicz. Lead producer Jacob Jarvis. Bunker music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Republican Party is in a state of turmoil with Kevin McCarthy’s Speaker stalemate having sparked scenes not witnessed for a century. What is going on, where can it go next, and what does this mean for the GOP? Jacob Jarvis speaks to Julie Normal, co-director of UCL’s Centre on US Politics to discuss the chaos in the Capitol and what 2023 holds for American politics. Oh, and Donald Trump, unfortunately… “For some it’s key policy differences, for some it’s personal differences - not liking Kevin McCarthy. For some it’s just a power play.” “Whichever way it goes it’s definitely not the way you want your party starting out their term in office, especially in the run up to an election. “The ironic thing with Trump is that a conviction or an indictment… would in some ways galvanise him even more. He loves to portray himself as a victim of the Deep State.” “Some Democrats were literally bringing popcorn to the House this week. Biden has basically said. ‘This is embarrassing, but it’s not my problem.’” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music and Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Artwork by James Parrett. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With all signs pointing to a recession, how will this one be different to those of the past? From strikes to sky high heating bills, we’ve begun 2023, much as we ended 2022. How long can this last, and is there any hope of our fortunes improving? Resolution Foundation’s research director James Smith joins Ahir Shah to tell us how this situation might play out. “If we are pessimistic about the future and that feeds back into how [the Government] set their policies, it can become self fulfilling.” “The big thing here is that we are getting poorer as a country.” “We need to make sure the recovery from the pandemic and cost of living recession isn’t as bad as the financial crisis.” Presented by Ahir Shah. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Robin Leeburn. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Unprecedented problems like climate change require innovative responses. Activist Natasha Walter, author of upcoming book Before the Light Fades: A Memoir of Grief and Resistance, joins Ros Taylor to explore what the histories of protest can tell us about current struggles. “People forget just how radical the 1960s movements were.” “To look back and remember how people stayed politically active is incredibly encouraging.” “Civil disobedience is a vital part of society.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Artwork by James Parrett. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There seem to be more authoritarian figures than ever before. But is this true? And if so, what do these leaders have in common? Ruth Ben-Ghiat, author of Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present joins Alex Andreou to explore how authoritarianism has changed over time, and why the greatest strengths of ‘strongmen’ could also be their biggest downfall. “Leader personality cults often present them as omnipotent.” “The same instincts of these leaders to win followers domestically can cause their downfall on the international stage.” “Financial networks are key to controlling people.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Producers: Jet Gerbertson, Alex Rees. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Bunker music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Artwork by James Parrett. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the NHS in crisis and strikes ongoing – will the Government’s New Year’s Resolution be to get a grip? Then further afield, we look to the alarming covid situation in China and a new Congress being sworn in in the United States. Plus, a few dates for your diary – there might even be some bits to look forward to… In our first show of 2023, Alex Andreou talks to Andrew Harrison to outline the year ahead. “Everyone is incredibly scared, it’s not nice to live in a country and feel like if something happens to you nobody will turn up.” – Alex Andreou “The government is doing so poorly it thinks a confrontation with the unions will help it.” – Alex Andreou “The public has realised Brexit was a mistake, that is unshakable now.” – Alex Andreou “Things could get very messy on day one. There will be a lot of battles in Congress.” – Alex Andreou Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Andrew Harrison with Alex Andreou. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ahead of NYE nights out, listen back to our ode to nightclubs… No one looks back and remembers the nights they got plenty of sleep. But beyond a mere boogie, nightclubs play a vital role in shaping our collective and individual identity. Alex Andreou assembles an all-star spinning a-roundtable to chew on how COVID closures have impacted nighttime industries, why the pandemic has deprived us from more than a good party, and how culture goes beyond theatres and museums… Mairi Mackenzie is a cultural historian and consultant curator for the V&A Dundee exhibition Night Fever: Designing Club Culture. Bay Sisouphanh is Head of Event Sales at London’s Village Underground. Mark Wood is one half of the London Readers Wifes who DJ at Vauxhall institution Duckie. “You find your tribe at nightclubs.” – Mark Wood “People will always find an outlet for that need for pleasure.” – Mairi Mackenzie “Forget about children going back to school. When can we send the gays back to nightclubs?” – Mark Wood “There's a lack of perception around the value of nightclubs to the gaiety and the mental health of the nation.” – Mark Wood https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented and produced by Alex Andreou. Assistant producers: Jacob Archbold and Jelena Sofronijevic. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Alex Rees. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Here’s another throwback Bunker Gold to tide you over to next year… How do you know the world is real? How do I know I’m real? As virtual worlds expand, our concepts of reality warp. NYU philosopher David Chalmers – author of Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy – talks to Ros Taylor about the etiquette of virtual living, why video game characters deserve moral rights, and how we can know what we think we know. “Simulated beings could end up outnumbering non-simulated beings. So the odds that YOU are simulated could be high…” “If we’re living in a simulation, all this is still real – and our lives are still full of meaning.” https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor and Arthur Snell. Produced by Andrew Harrison. Assistant producers: Jelena Sofronijevic and Jacob Archbold. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Alex Rees. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Here’s another hit for the Christmas period… DANGER, SPOILERS! James Bond finally returned to cinemas in a world where questions about sexism, racism and Britishness have seldom been more pointed. Is there a place for a suave, womanising emissary of British power in the modern world? Is it time to reassess the role of Bond in British culture? Regulars and Bond fiends Ros Taylor and Arthur Snell talk to Ian Kinane, editor of the International Journal of James Bond Studies and a senior lecturer in English literature, about their first Bonds and where 007 should go next. Do not listen unless you’ve seen the film! “Bond offers a parallel universe in which Britain always wins.” - Arthur Snell “Bond probably has many fatherless children all over the world.” - Ian Kinane “James Bond is so far from the boring reality of intelligence work, like people staring at databases.” - Arthur Snell “Shirley Bassey is seen as singing an anthem of Britain's glory days of Empire.” - Ian Kinane “Bond seems to embody what is properly British, but more often he’s played by actors who aren't British themselves.” - Ian Kinane https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor and Arthur Snell. Produced by Andrew Harrison. Assistant producers: Jelena Sofronijevic and Jacob Archbold. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Alex Rees. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Another from our back catalogue… How did a Christian movement, founded at the turn of the century, become the fastest growing religion today? Pentecostal Christianity has 600 million followers, with 35,000 new adherents a day. So what’s behind the remarkable rise of this religious movement? Elle Hardy, author of Beyond Belief, tells Arthur Snell about her mission to report its rise across twelve different countries, from South America to Africa and Australia, how Pentecostalism provides community to the rootless and marginalised in a fragmenting world…and its toxic connection to populist authoritarianism. “There will be more Pentecostals than Catholics in Brazil in the next ten years.” “Anyone can become a prophet in Pentecostalism.” “You can fit six Vaticans in the biggest Pentecostal church in Nigeria.” “Pentecostalism is the ideology of the new right in America.” https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Arthur Snell. Producers: Jacob Archbold and Jelena Sofronijevic. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Alex Rees. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first of our Christmas cracker throwbacks, listen to James O’Brien’s righteous evisceration of Boris Johnson, recorded in the aftermath of the Greased Piglet’s resignation announcement. The LBC host joined Ros Taylor to pick through the wreckage. What will be Johnson’s legacy? Could things have ever gone differently? The pair bid farewell to the man who wanted to be king – but failed resoundingly as Prime Minister. “In terms of personal political performance Johnsonism is very similar to Trumpism. It’s opportunism devoid of conscience.” “It’s an absence of shame that I think defines him.” "He pursued monuments to his ego – like the Garden Bridge – but these also acted as distractions from his utter failures." "Even on his way out of the door, he's detonating explosives that will be felt for a generation to come." https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Jacob Archbold and Jelena Sofronijevic. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles Dickens wrote that Christmas is a time when Want is keenly felt, with that in mind we focus on three organisations helping people in need. Arthur Snell explains why he’s supporting the Ukrainian charity Smart Medical Aid and its CEO Iryna Rybinkina tells us about her work on the frontline. Ros Taylor hears from Honeypot’s Anthony Cummings and two of the young carers it’s helped. And Joe Bookbinder tells us how Christmas can be the loneliest time — and that the Samaritans are there to listen 24/7. “Honeypot gives you a chance to be free and stop worrying about things. I worry a lot.” - Holly “I left my children who are three and 10. My husband is a single father these days — I cannot bring them to Ukraine as it is not safe… As a mother I struggle with that thought every day. But there are children in Ukraine who do need help.” - Iryna Rybinkina, CEO of Smart Medical Aid “Don’t feel ashamed if you are struggling at Christmas.” - Joe Bookbinder, Samaritans All the advertising revenue from this episode will be donated to the charities featured. smartmedicalaid.org/ honeypot.org.uk Samaritans.org Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Producer and audio editor: Jade Bailey. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What do veganism, Donald Trump and Brussels sprouts have in common? They’re all points of contention at Christmas time. But how do you deal with the terrible opinions of family and friends? Marie Le Conte is joined by Christmas elves Tom Peck and Seth Thévoz to discuss navigating conversations with Brexit-y uncles and Corbynista cousins. “Everyone talks to me about politics, and it's so boring.” –Tom Peck My dad is France’s last remaining Emmanuel Macron fan.” – Marie Le Conte “Communists to the left of me, Nazis to the right, here I am – the only liberal – stuck in the middle with you.” – Seth Thévoz Presented by Marie Le Conte with Tom Peck and Seth Thévoz. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Robin Leburn. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine, thousands signed up to support Ukrainian refugees and put them up in their own homes. Nearly a year on, is our government still doing enough to support those fleeing the war? Stan Beneš, a trustee of Opora, a charity which helps Ukrainians to settle in the UK, joins Ros Taylor to explore what we can do to help those displaced by the conflict in Ukraine. https://opora.uk/ “Instead of government support, it became the job of charities to match people.” “There is no one cohesive process of matching Ukrainian refugees with sponsors.” “People were finding hosts on Facebook.” Support us on Patreon www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Robin Leeburn. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The strikes are biting with more workforces walking out across the economy. Will the Government blink? Meanwhile, the worst Brexit goes the louder the Brexit Party AKA Reform UK rattles its cage. Do we need to steel ourselves for another year of Brexity self-sabotage? Plus, the Qatar aftermath, Sunak orders an audit of Britain’s support for Ukraine, and a mini-crystal ball look at 2023. Gavin Esler takes Alex Andreou through the week ahead. “We just don’t spend enough on healthcare… You don’t see a winter health crisis in Germany.” “It’s just like listening to the old Marxists: ‘If only we tried Brexit properly, it’d all be fine.” “2022 has been a year of self-harm for Britain.” Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Producer: Jet Gebertson. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Treasury “orthodoxy” is the Tory punchbag – but it only acts the way it does because it’s already been colonised by free marketeers, says Aeron Davis, author of Bankruptcy, Bubbles and Bailouts: The Inside History of the Treasury since 1976. He tells Ahir Shah why Britain now has two Chancellors and no real Prime Minister; why our economic fate is determined by people who’ve never worked in a real business… and how deregulation ended up outsourcing the entire British economy to the City. “Rishi Sunak is our first investment banker PM. We’ve finally reached that peak.” “Every review of financial governance was filled with financiers – and what they did was serve the share price.” Written and presented by Ahir Shah. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Alex Rees. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In an age of social media soundbites, the art of public speaking is changing – especially for women. Viv Groskop, journalist and author of How To Own The Room, joins Ros Taylor to explore the speaking superpowers of women from Michelle Obama to Greta Thunberg, how to feel more confident when making speeches, why some women make their voices sound lower, and how new technologies are changing the way we speak. “Margaret Thatcher’s speeches were trapped in a gendered stereotype.” “We have a cacophony of voices now which is changing what power looks like.” “The debating culture style is losing out to social media soundbites.” Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerburtson, Alex Rees. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Bunker music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The interviews behind Nelson Mandela’s epic memoir The Long Walk To Freedom are out now as the podcast Mandela: The Lost Tapes. Here, South Africa’s first Black president explains himself in his own words – always inspiring, often funny too. Co-writer Richard Stengel, former Time editor and Obama Undersecretary of State, tells Alex Andreou of his affection for Mandela, how they came to collaborate on books and more, the charm of Mandela’s secretly oversized ego, and what it’s like to work with a giant of history. Hear Mandela: The Lost Tapes exclusively on Audible: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Mandela-The-Lost-Tapes-Podcast/B0BKMQ8GX8 “This took me back 30 years. I felt like I was back in the room with Mandela again.” “Mandela was very good at flattery. And people who are good at it are susceptible to it…” “He was an incredibly charming, sunny man and the listener can now feel a little of that.” Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Producer Jet Gerburtson. Assistant producer Kasia Tomasiewicz. Lead producer Jacob Jarvis. Bunker music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Boris Johnson’s endgame was a gripping spectacle of hubris, betrayal, power struggles and bare-faced self-interest. But what went down behind the scenes? Sebastian Payne lays out the drama in his new book The Fall of Boris Johnson: The Full Story. The former Financial Times’s Whitehall Editor tells Ros Taylor about the contradictions that drove Johnson’s career, the truth about his relationship with Zelenskyy… and how parties at No.10 helped bring down a man who doesn’t even like parties. “Johnson is gone but his domestic policies still shape Westminster.” “In Kyiv they can’t understand why we got rid of Johnson.” “Johnson never had the right people around him.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amazon’s cheap products and one-click purchasing has changed how we shop forever. But just how did the shopping behemoth alter shopper’s minds? From Black Friday to Cyber Monday and Christmas the opportunities to spend money on the internet are never ending. Consumer psychologist Dr Gareth Harvey joins Ahir Shah in the Bunker to tell us the ways Amazon influences our decision making. “You may not buy through Amazon, but their algorithms influence what’s ‘hot or not’. All of those things will influence your purchasing habits even though you’re never using it.” “When we look at what people buy in a bricks and mortar store, 70% of people buy the leading product. When you’re buying it online, 70% of people go for the own brand. You don’t want to look cheap” “Social consciousness, awareness of ethical issues are really on the up, but when we look at sustainable products it doesn’t balance out.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ahir Shah. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Iron Curtain marked the Cold War divide in Europe. What is its legacy and how does this split remain today? Timothy Philips discusses his book The Curtain and the Wall: A Modern Journey Along Europe's Cold War Border with Ros Taylor. After travelling along the border, he explains what it represented and how it is remembered by those who lived along it. “It was a border developed to stop people in the east from leaving. It got stronger because regimes in the east were frightened young people would flee if they could to the west.” “People didn’t expect the societies they lived in to collapse so quickly… people were promised a lot of things that perhaps didn’t come true.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jelena Sofronijevic and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rail, nursing and Border Force workers strike during sudden extreme cold weather, but their public support seems solid. Will the Government’s “Union Barons” attacks stick? Plus, James Cleverly ditches human rights priorities in a desperate search for any post-Brexit upside. Russia’s war in Ukraine enters its deep winter phase. And the last legislation to get squeezed through Parliament before Christmas. Alex Andreou takes Andrew Harrison through the week ahead. “The Tories are fudging the economy because they know Labour will win the next election.” – Alex Andreou “Thank God It's too cold for drunken England fans to go out and smash up Delice de France.” – Andrew Harrison “There’s public support for rail strikes because Mick Lynch is a media superstar.” – Alex Andreou “Doing business with autocratic regimes is a high-risk activity.” – Alex Andreou Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Andrew Harrison. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’ve got a Star Wars fan in No.10 – Sunak collects lightsabers – but is there real political meaning to the tale of empires and rebels? Chris Kempshall, historian and author of The History and Politics of Star Wars: Death Stars and Democracy, talks to Andrew Harrison about Star Wars’ roots as a Vietnam allegory; what the Empire can tell us about fascism; why the Republic is a bad advert for democracy; and why Andor is the best political drama on TV right now. For 25% off the book, use the code HPSW25 here: https://www.routledge.com/The-History-and-Politics-of-Star-Wars-Death-Stars-and-Democracy/Kempshall/p/book/9781032318875 “Sunak’s story of a multimillionaire who moves sideways isn’t in the Star Wars universe.” “Sadly for Lucas the audience didn’t get that it’s about the Vietnam War.” “No one would watch a film about the government leaping to work.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Andrew Harrison. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producer: Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Alex Rees. Music: Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The tech explosion has transformed the spy game. Are intelligence agencies fit to face new threats from terror groups, disinformation gangs, and even teenagers in bedrooms? In a fascinating conversation intelligence expert Amy B. Zegart – author of Spies, Lies, and Algorithms: The History and Future of American Intelligence – tells Andrew Harrison how too much “spytainment” has warped US intelligence policy; the truth about the CIA blunders that led to 9/11 and the Iraq quagmire; and why modern spying isn’t what you think it is. “The intelligence game isn’t about secrets. It’s about piecing together information.” “George Washington even used fake French bakeries to deceive the British about American troop numbers.” “The more spy-themed TV you watch, the more likely you are to support questionable practices.” “The truth is, there has never been a ticking time bomb situation.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Andrew Harrison. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production: Alex Rees. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Putin’s war has triggered a food supply crisis in Africa. Arthur Snell travels to Ghana and Nigeria with Ukrainian campaigners who are forging alliances with Africans against Russia’s criminality. In a special crossover edition with Doomsday Watch, Arthur discovers how Africa is suffering for Putin’s war, why some African countries are still siding with the Russian tyrant, and how it feels to defend your country when you’re a refugee. Donate to help the Ukrainian human rights campaigners Zmina at zmina.ua/en “In the 21st Century all countries are interconnected… We all depend on one another.” – Oleg Nivievskyi “Think about the cost of living crisis in Western Europe then multiply it maybe five times… That’s the magnitude of the food supply crisis in Africa.” – Arthur Snell “Every tonne of grain from Ukraine counts… The more food instability we have, the more we will see riots, criminality and worse.” – Oleg Nivievskyi “The Netherlands, Belgium, France, the UK all had empires, but you do not pretend to restore your empires. But that is Russia’s political culture. To restore its empire.” – Olexiy Haran Reported and presented by Arthur Snell. Producer Jet Gerburtson. Assistant producer Kasia Tomasiewicz. Lead producer Jacob Jarvis. Bunker music by Kenny Dickinson, Doomsday Watch music by Paul Hartnoll. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Group Editor Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The horrors of austerity make for grim statistics. But what are the stories behind those numbers? The Mirror’s Real Britain columnist Ros Wynne-Jones joins Ros Taylor to discuss the exhaustion, pain and spirit of those feeling the brunt of Tory cuts. “There are always new levels and layers of cuts.” “There’s just an assumption now that the system is brutalised and cruel.” “Disabled people have been at the front of these cuts, but they’ve also been at the vanguard of resistance.” “The level of exhaustion people are at after 12 years is profound.” “Every year this Government is in power is wasted life opportunities for a new generation.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Alex Rees. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The House of Lords is constantly embattled – but what value does it have and what really goes on there? Various governments have wanted to reform the chamber – with limited success. Can it be done? Marie Le Conte speaks to Politico’s senior UK correspondent Esther Webber about the good, the bad and the… unusual. “It was where a deeper scrutiny happened, which you wouldn’t always see in the Commons.” “A big barrier to reform is it has to go through the Lords.” “I feel slightly weary of the idea of a second elected chamber. It means peers would be subject to the same kind of electoral tug of war of MPs.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Alex Rees. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Statistics dictate policy – but what if our data sets are wrong? How are numbers manipulated for political gain? These are questions that House of Commons Library statistician Georgina Sturge answers in her new book Bad Data: How Governments, Politicians and the Rest of Us Get Misled by Numbers. She tells Alex Andreou about how data is used to make policy, how it is being manipulated, and how to tell good data from bad. “Numbers can’t speak for themselves.” “Governments are presenting data as if it is free of ideology.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A Tory MP exodus rolls on as the Government looks to turn public opinion against striking workers as more walkouts loom. Is there any chance of deals ahead of Christmas action? And the Online Safety Bill returns to the Commons, while Labour has its say on the Lords. Plus, we look at the latest from protests in Iran and China, as well as US political rumblings. Ros Taylor joins Jacob Jarvis to discuss the week ahead. "Morale is very low in the Tory party.” “Presenting striking workers as grinches ruining Christmas is ridiculous.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Jacob Jarvis with Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Climate change remains a key political issue. But with multiple crises mounting, are the Greens a one policy party? Ros Taylor is joined by Zack Polanski, deputy leader of the Green Party, to talk about what they want and what's missing from mainstream political discourse. “Only two countries used FPTP – Belarus and the UK.” “Too often politics operates in silos – and we are interested in systems thinking and change.” “People are sick of the two party system.” “We need a positive message on immigration.” “Keir Starmer won’t talk to us, even though the environment is a crucial issue.” “It's irresponsible for a leader to say they will get to net zero on technologies that don’t exist yet.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees, Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. Music: Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joe Biden is set for a tough couple of years with a Republican majority in the House of Representatives. How will the GOP look to hurt the president? Dr Thomas Gift, director of UCL’s Centre on US Politics, joins Jacob Jarvis in to tell us about how Biden’s enemies will enact their revenge. • “Anything Joe biden wants to get done between now and the next 2 years is just not going to happen” • “Republicans can basically block any piece of legislation that Joe Biden puts to the floor” • “A lot of Republicans think this is time for payback, this is time for revenge.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music and Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is the cost of having children making parenthood feel impossible? With childcare through the roof, insecure housing and the cost of living crisis starting to bite, it’s an anxious time for parents. Joeli Brearley, founder of Pregnant Then Screwed, joins Ros Taylor to highlight how the poor provision for parents harms us all. “Ironically I was sacked from a children's charity for wanting a baby.” “Every ten minutes a woman is pushed out of their job.” “We have created a system where dads aren’t allowed to be more active in the family.” “Children aren’t a lifestyle choice, we are literally reproducing the labour market.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Robin Leeburn. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From postal workers to nurses, we face a winter of strikes. What do they want and why should we all be invested in their cause? Frances O’Grady, general secretary of the British Trades Union Congress, joins Jude Rogers to discuss the problems faced by Britain’s workforce – and whether those taking action can pull together for a better future. “With real wages falling and living standards stagnating there is a coordinated offensive against working people.” “There is no light at the end of the tunnel unless we stick together.” “When striking workers win, we all win.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Jude Rogers. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s hard to remember a time when the NHS wasn’t at ‘breaking point’. But with more than 7 million people in England on the NHS waiting list, real-term wage decreases, over-stretched ambulance services, and impending strike action from nurses – can it make it through the winter? Anita Charlesworth, Director of Research at the Health Foundation, joins Siân Pattenden to weigh up if there is any hope of saving it. “The NHS staff are wracked with trauma post-Covid.” “We ran the NHS hot at the edge of capacity before the pandemic.” “Pay is far from the central factor of low staff morale, they haven’t felt valued for years.” “A lot of hospitals are now running food banks for their staff.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Siân Pattenden. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Robin Leeburn. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our unwritten constitution relies on our politicians acting in good faith. But with recent political crises leaving it creaking at the hinges, do we still benefit from its flexibility? Andrew Blick, co-author of The Bonfire of the Decencies: Repairing and Restoring the British Constitution, talks to Alex Andreou about how to fix the rules that rule us. “Our flexible constitution can adjust in times of public emergency.” “The ‘good chap’ phrase is as outdated as the theory.” “Our constitution isn’t codified, but there are more checks and balances.” “We have lost faith in politicians behaving themselves.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees, Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey Group editor: Andrew Harrison. Music: Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Sunak embarks on a mission to “get tough” this week – is this another Tory vanity project avoiding the real issues? With pressure over the situation in Manston, more strikes looming and the economy still in turmoil, where should his focus actually be? Plus, mass unrest is shaking China – how will it play out? Yasmeen Serhan joins Jacob Jarvis to discuss the week ahead. “Sunak isn’t being compared to a lettuce, yet.” – Jacob Jarvis "A draconian approach has sparked mass protests across China." – Yasmeen Serhan “There are big strikes on the horizon.” – Yasmeen Serhan Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Jacob Jarvis with Yasmeen Serhan. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UK has a jobs crisis – too many vacancies, and not enough people to fill them. Is migration the fix? The end of free movement of EU workers is partially to blame for the worker shortage – and filling the swathes of roles across the NHS, social care, hospitality and construction is not an easy task. Madeleine Sumption, director of the Migration Observatory, tells Ros Taylor what the Government can do to fix the situation. “In the past the availability of some of those EU workers to fill jobs had papered over the problems.” “Low pay is effectively baked into the system by policy.” “From a purely mercenary perspective, the UK benefits a lot from bringing in people that it didn’t pay to train.” “The government hasn’t done enough to plan the workforce effectively” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tucker Carlson is the most-watched cable news host in America. Who is he, why is he so popular and what makes him tick? He’s praised Vladimir Putin and Viktor Orban, perpetuated the “stop the steal” nonsense, and regularly fills the airwaves with rhetoric to enrage the Republican right. Dan Cassino, author of Fox News and American Politics, joins Jacob Jarvis to discover what Carlson’s influence means for the future of the United States. “If he makes a mention of a candidate – either positively or negatively- that candidate moves up in the polls the next day.” “Tucker Carlson is a troll. He is a right-wing troll. He is someone who is saying the things that will get people upset because he believes that's the way to get attention and to have influence. The worst thing is, he’s not wrong.” “If I can make an extreme argument, once you respond to me, I’m in control. I’m the one setting the agenda.” “I’ve no doubt if that populist wing of the Republican party comes into disarray, that he’ll rebrand himself. “ Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER USA is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As one of the world’s biggest economies, trouble in China means trouble for us all. China’s stringent Covid policy has seen businesses lock down, having a huge prolonged impact on trade and international relations. From global development to the war in Ukraine, George Magnus, author of Red Flags: Why Xi’s China is in Jeopardy joins Alex Andreou in The Bunker to tell us how the ripples of Chinese intervention spread far wider than we may imagine. "We’re all worried and thinking a lot about what’s going on in China. It's a huge economy and it has a huge impact on trade and international economic relations." “You’d need huge political reform as well and that’s just not going to happen, especially not under Xi Jinping” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lisa Nandy talks to Dorian Lynskey about the people and places left behind in modern Britain – and how to empower them. The shadow secretary of state for communities and local government discusses the communities that give her hope, the missteps of recent Governments and what shifts she’d like to see – as outlined in her new book All In: How We Build a Country That Works. “Everywhere you go there is this feeling that everything is falling apart.” “People know that this country could be better… they’re very angry that for a long time they’ve been saying things haven’t been working.” “People need hope. There’s got to be hope on the horizon.” “Change is inevitable. People won’t put up with the system anymore.” Presented by Dorian Lynskey. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees . Assistant producer Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production by Robin Leeburn. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. The Bunker is a Podmasters production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Musk’s Twitter takeover is leading to a mass exodus from the site. But is this just the Elon effect, or was that bound to happen anyway? Jacob Jarvis is joined by Marcus Gilroy-Ware, Lecturer in Creative Digital Media at SOAS and author of Filling the Void: Emotion, Capitalism and Social Media, about what the decline of the Twittersphere means for how we participate in politics – and to discuss whether this was an inevitability, regardless of who ran the platform. “Musk is known for entrepreneurial pseudo-logic.” “Musk represents the death of the political.” “We all skip ads, so it’s not a viable way to fund social media.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees, Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. Music: Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has changed the world forever, but what was it like to be in Kyiv as the first bombs fell? Luke Harding, foreign correspondent at The Guardian, joins Arthur Snell to reveal all about the grim reality of Putin’s war, and the unheard human stories behind the headlines, covered in his new book Invasion: Russia’s Bloody War and Ukraine’s Fight for Survival. “A mum and two kids came into my shelter with colouring books, and you just knew people were already dying.” “Russian occupation means terror and murder.” “Deep down Putin is a coward, and I would be surprised if he used a nuclear bomb.” “Crimea is where Ukrainians used to go on holiday, but Russia has turned it into a ghastly military garrison.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Arthur Snell. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Jacob Archbold, Jelena Sofronijevic and Alex Rees. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hunt’s cuts bonanza faces dissection from angry MPs this week. How will he handle the pushback? Plus, there are rumours of a Swiss-style EU deal – could this possibly happen? Then we cast an eye to the US, with ripples still coming from the midterms and Trump’s presidential announcement. And with the Qatar World Cup underway, what has reaction been to the tournament so far? Yasmeen Serhan joins Alex Andreou to discuss the news to look out for in the days ahead. “There’s some buyers' remorse with Brexit and the economic impact we’re starting to feel… the elephant in the room is the B word.” – Yasmeen Serhan “I think people are quite fearful of spending cuts… there’s room for a clash between public perceptions of what the public thinks and the Government thinks.” – Yasmeen Serhan “It seems to me the budget is slowly unravelling, there’s lots of noise from low tax Tories.” – Alex Andreou Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Alex Andreou with Yasmeen Serhan. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Jade Bailey. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hunt’s cuts upon cuts have left the nation worried, depressed and frightened. Is there any hope beyond austerity 2.0? Marc Stears, director of the UCL Policy Lab, author of Out of the Ordinary and former Ed Miliband speechwriter, speaks to Ros Taylor about the state of Britain and its future prospects. “The reality of the economy is an extraordinary living standards squeeze that people confront in their daily lives.” “Anger, rage, unpredictability – you see that everywhere at the moment, but particularly in the Conservative backbenches.” “We’re probably overly gloomy as to where we might be able to get, but not gloomy enough about where we are now.” “People are fed up with overly grandiose stories which turned out to have nothing in them.” www.patreon.com/bunkercast Presented by Ros Taylor. Producers: Jet Gerbertson and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Alex Rees. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s official, Trump is running for President in 2024. Does anyone really want him to – or is it foolish to underestimate him? Julie Norman, Co-Director of the UCL Centre on US Politics, joins Jacob to tell us why calling Trump the underdog could play straight into his hands. “As much as Trump gets leverage in promoting himself, bashing Biden also plays well with his base.” “I think Trump knows that what is appealing about Trump is himself - and it's why some of the Trump backed candidates didn’t do so well. He has a cult of personality around him that is bigger than his children and the people around him.” “Whether one loves or hates Trump it’s important not to discount him.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Jacob Jarvis. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Jade Bailey. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER USA is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dirty air filing homes across the UK is leading to an increase in asthma and lower life expectancy. But just how filthy is it? And are we doing anything meaningful about it? Ros Taylor talks to David Green, senior research fellow in the aerosol science team at Imperial College London. “Scientists have found particles from polluted air in unborn babies.” “Some of the highest levels of pollution are experienced in cars.” “Government anti-pollution measures benefit the public purse in the long term because we spend less on things like childhood development.” “Outside of London, industrial hubs contribute a huge level of air pollution – Port Talbot’s factories make it the most polluted place in the UK.” Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Jacob Archbold, Jelena Sofronijevic and Alex Rees. Assistant Producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gina Miller, described as an “establishment wrecking ball,” speaks to Alex Andreou about battling Brexit and her desire to “reboot” the system. After rising to prominence taking on the Government’s authority to trigger Article 50 without a vote in Parliament, her fight has been taken to the stage in the play Bloody Difficult Women. She’s gone on to launch the True & Fair political party, and is aiming to oust Chris Grayling from his Parliamentary seat. “Because everyone was talking about sovereignty, I thought people would be supportive of my case.” “If someone is abusing me and not what I’m saying – I’ve probably won.” “The whole system of government is not fit for purpose. And the main parties will not go as far as I think is needed to reboot it.” Support us on Patreon: www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Alex Andreou. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music: Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Suella Braverman has called the asylum system broken – but she’s probably focused on the wrong parts. What needs fixing? Home Office incompetence has led to a backlog in processing claims – while the Government is focussing on a new deal with France to reduce people crossing the Channel in small boats. Colin Yeo, a barrister specialising in migration issues sits down with Arthur Snell, to tell us just how Brexit broke the asylum system – and how to speed it up once and for all. “I think it boils down to incompetence when it comes down to it.” “Instead of refocussing resources they’ve just ignored it and it’s made things worse.” “If someone is from Syria it doesn’t take long to realise that they’re probably a refugee” “I don’t trust the Home Office when they start quoting statistics that aren’t in the public domain.” https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Arthur Snell. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producer: Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz Audio production by Alex Rees. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As climate activists ramp up provocative protests, the Government is cracking down by bolstering police powers. How far will this go? Ros Taylor is joined by David Mead, professor of UK human rights law, to discuss the incoming public order bill – and how it could impact groups such as Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion. “There’s certainly been a step up of climate activists over the last couple of months.” “These groups have a deliberate tactic of being arrested. In their view they need more provocative actions to get publicity. They’ve had a step up.” “We should be very worried here of a chilling effect.” “Peaceful protest does include serious disruption.” Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bunkercast Written and presented by Ros Taylor. Lead producer: Jacob Jarvis. Producers: Alex Rees and Jet Gerbertson. Assistant producer: Kasia Tomasiewicz. Audio production by Jade Bailey. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices