This Is Why

Thousands of women should get payouts because of the way changes to the state pension affected them, according to a watchdog.The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) said the women who were born in the 1950s didn't get their pension when they expected because they didn't know about the reforms. The PHSO report added that they are "owed" money by the Department for Work and Pensions. It criticised the department, claiming it has "clearly indicated that it will refuse to comply... this is unacceptable". On this episode, Niall Paterson explains why the pension reforms were pushed through quicker than initially planned by the then coalition government and discusses the proposals for compensation and whether the payouts are likely to happen. He's joined by Sky correspondent Shamaan Freeman-Powell and one of the Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) campaigners, Michele Carlile. Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Paul Stanworth

The resignation of Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has come as a shock. He suffered defeats in two referendums earlier this month, where the public voted against the government's plans to remove "sexist" language from the constitution.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Ireland correspondent Stephen Murphy to look at Varadkar's legacy as both the youngest and openly gay Taoiseach.Plus, in Wales, history has also been made as Vaughan Gething was sworn in as first minister - the first black leader of a European country. He narrowly won the Welsh Labour leadership election against Jeremy Miles, with 51.7% of the vote. Questions over some of his campaign donations from a company run by a man twice convicted for environmental offences, and Conservative criticism over Welsh Labour's budget spending, give Gething plenty to defend and tackle in his first weeks in office. Niall explores what's in the new Welsh first minister's in-tray with Tomos Evans, our Wales reporter. Richard Wyn Jones, director of the Wales Governance Centre and dean of public affairs at Cardiff University, also talks about Mr Gething.Producer: Rosie Gillott Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Wendy Parker

More than half of people in the UK have seen online conspiracy theories about why the Princess of Wales has been absent from public life, but it hasn't dented trust in the Royal Family, according to Sky News polling. Speculation on social media about Kate's health and whereabouts have been rife in recent days – despite Kensington Palace announcing she would be recovering from abdominal surgery until Easter – and suspicion has now spread from edited photos including the princess to photos of other members of the Royal Family. So how has their brush with TikTok conspiracists impacted the royals and does the palace need to rethink its public relations strategy in the age of social media? On the Sky News Daily podcast, Niall Paterson speaks to our royal correspondent, Rhiannon Mills, who has spent the day with Prince William in Sheffield, and to the late Queen's former communications secretary, Simon Lewis, about why he believes time is on the palace's side. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Rosie Gillott Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont

A new Sky News series 'Faultlines' covers in-depth and immersive reports exploring contemporary social challenges across the UK. This episode asks 'is our housing market in crisis?', with not enough homes and expensive rentals forcing an increasing number of people into homelessness. In 2021/22, just 7,528 new social homes were delivered. Nowhere near enough for the 1.1 million people on the waiting list and the government’s target of building 300,000 new homes a year. The seaside town Hastings is on the frontline of all that is wrong with the housing system, with evictions, social housing shortages and Airbnb among the issues behind the problem. On this episode of the Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire talks to our people and politics correspondent Nick Martin in Hastings, to uncover the scale of the problems, and hear from those at the heart of it. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Paul Stanworth

As Russians go to the polls, the outcome is certainly already written as Vladimir Putin runs pretty much uncontested in his bid for a fifth term in office. Opposition candidates were banned from standing, fled the country or are dead - like Putin's most prominent critic, Alexei Navalny. So, what will another six years of rule mean for Russians, the war in Ukraine and the world? On the Daily, Sky's Tom Cheshire looks at Putin's grip on power over the years as he's joined by our international correspondent Diana Magnay, who spent the past six years reporting from Moscow for us. Plus, Tom talks to former British spy Christopher Steele - who previously ran MI6's Russia desk - about what challenges to Putin there could be. Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Senior podcast producer: Annie JoyceEditor: Wendy Parker

In the early months of the Iraq war in 2003, around 88 British troops were deployed to the Qarmat Ali water treatment plant to provide round-the-clock security. What the soldiers didn't know was that while on duty, they were being exposed to a carcinogenic chemical used to maintain the pipes in the plant.Ten ex-soldiers have now spoken out for the first time after suffering a range of health problems, including daily nosebleeds, a brain tumour and several diagnoses of cancer.Today on the Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Sky's Michael Drummond about his report into why the former troops are still seeking reparations, and to ex-RAF sergeant Andy Tosh who was exposed to the chemical and says his health has been permanently damaged.Plus, we'll get the latest from deputy political editor Sam Coates on the government's new definition of 'extremism'.Senior producer: Annie JoyceProducer: Sydney Pead Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-CharlesPromotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa JohnEditor: Wendy Parker

The prime minister has resisted calls to hand back £10m donated to the Conservative Party by businessman Frank Hester. Speaking in the Commons, Rishi Sunak condemned Mr Hester's reported remarks about MP Diane Abbott as "racist" and "wrong" but insisted he had shown "remorse". Labour is calling on the Conservatives to give the money back. Today on the Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Labour MP Dawn Butler and Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates about the matter. Plus, Sky correspondent Amelia Harper takes us through her report uncovering a WhatsApp network of children who are filming themselves killing and torturing animals. Warning: this episode contains references to animal cruelty Producer: Soila Apparacio and Sydney PeadAssistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Philly Beaumont

After Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the imposition of sanctions on the country meant direct exports of British-made luxury vehicles fell to zero.However, Sky News analysis shows that hundreds of millions of pounds worth of luxury cars are being sold to Russia through neighbouring countries. Notably, Azerbaijan on Russia's southern border, where Britain recorded an unprecedented increase in car exports. In turn, Azerbaijan reported an unprecedented increase in car exports to Russia. Niall Paterson is joined by our economics and data editor Ed Conway on the Sky News Daily, to explain why luxury vehicles are still finding their way into Russia, and what can be done about it. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Philly Beaumont

The Princess of Wales has apologised "for any confusion" after she admitted "editing" a Mother's Day image of her and her children. Major international picture agencies told media outlets to "kill" the photo from their systems 12 hours after the picture was released by Kensington Palace on Sunday. AP told Sky News the photo broke their manipulation rules as it shows an "inconsistency in the alignment of Princess Charlotte's left hand". Kill notices are uncommon and usually due to issues with copyright or journalistic process – and this has never happened to a royal picture. On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Sarah-Jane Mee speaks to Adam Parker from our data and forensics unit, who reveals what the team have learned after analysing the photo’s metadata. Plus, PR expert Mark Borkowski on whether this has fanned rather than extinguished online rumours, and our Royal Correspondent Rhiannon Mills on where this leaves the royal family. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

The biggest night in Hollywood promised glitz and glamour, but there were no surprises when it came to the big Academy Award winners.Oppenheimer took home seven awards, including best picture, best actor and best director for Britain’s Christopher Nolan, with Emma Stone winning best actress for her role in Poor Things. Sky News Arts and Entertainment correspondent Katie Spencer and Arts and Entertainment editor Claire Gregory were on the Vanity Fair red carpet for some celeb-spotting, with all details from this year’s Oscars. Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Paul Stanworth

Freddie Scappaticci was Britain's most highly prized IRA informant. His codename was 'Stakeknife' and the unit he led - ironically in charge of hunting informants like him - was called the 'nutting squad' as it shot people in the head after abducting and torturing them. Scappaticci never faced trial and lived under witness protection in England until his death last year, aged 77. Now, a seven-year investigation has concluded his actions probably resulted in "more lives being lost than saved", with the UK government being urged to acknowledge that many murders were avoidable and to apologise to bereaved families. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson examines what we know about the British mole and gets reaction to the Operation Kenova report with our senior Ireland correspondent David Blevins.Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jonathan Day Senior producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Wendy Parker

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

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

For most of us, our council tax bills are going up - with nearly every local authority in the country increasing it by the maximum amount. Nottingham City Council is the latest to declare itself bankrupt and has already approved huge cuts. Today, councillors in Birmingham consider whether to do the same.On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined from Birmingham by Midlands correspondent Becky Cotterill and local campaigner Shuranjeet Singh to look at what's gone wrong in the city and how it's affecting residents. Plus, Jessica Studdert from the thinktank New Local discusses why so many councils are struggling with their finances.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

As the country gears up for the general election, Wednesday's budget may be the last before the voters go to the polls. Hailed as "a budget to save the Tory party", speculation has been mounting that the chancellor will cut taxes as a last-ditch attempt to boost the Conservatives' plunging support. To afford the move, funding to public services could be slashed - but Jeremy Hunt has insisted any cuts will be done "responsibly". On today's episode, Sophy Ridge looks ahead to the budget. She's joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates and pollster Scarlett Maguire to unpack whether cutting taxes really is the way to a Conservative election win. Producer: Soila Apparicio Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

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

In a national address, Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons if NATO countries were to join a ground offensive in Ukraine.The suggestion of NATO forces was made by France's President Emmanuel Macron but quickly dismissed by the US, Britain, and Germany.However, it comes amid calls to show more strength against the Kremlin from Baltic leaders, as Russian troops ramp up military operations along land and sea borders in the region.Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are now bolstering their civilian armies and have urged other NATO countries, including the UK, to do the same. Today on the Daily, Anna Jones speaks to Sky's international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to unpack what Mr Putin said in his latest speech. She also speaks to security and defence editor Deborah Haynes about how Russia's neighbours are readying themselves for battle. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Evan Dale Podcast promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

Ecuador has become the deadliest country in South America with drug gangs and their Mexican cartel bosses murdering people, detonating car bombs and terrorising communities. The violence exploded earlier this year with gangs promising insurrection after the president of Ecuador put in place a nationwide crackdown following the escape of a drug lord from prison, and armed attack on a TV station. On this edition of Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire speaks to our chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay, who has had rare access to a prison in the coastal city of Esmeraldas, as the government tries to get a handle on the violence that's taken over Ecuador. Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producers: Iona Brunker, Evan Dale Promotion Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

It's been years since the extent of the Post Office Horizon scandal became clear - but hundreds of sub-postmasters, who were falsely convicted of fraud or financially crippled in the process, are still waiting for financial redress.Today, key players in the scandal - including former sub-postmaster Alan Bates and recently ousted chairman Henry Staunton - gave evidence to MPs about the government's compensation scheme - and why it's taken so long to pay it.But proceedings were somewhat overshadowed by an unexpected revelation by Mr Staunton. When asked about the investigation into his behaviour while at the Post Office, he claimed the main investigation was actually into current CEO Nick Read.On the Sky News Daily, Sophy Ridge is joined by business correspondent Paul Kelso to discuss the drama unfolding at the Post Office, and Labour MP Ian Lavery who's on the committee looking into the major miscarriage of justice. Producers: Alex Edden, Sydney PeadAssistant producers: Iona Brunker, Evan DalePromotion Producer: David ChipakupakuSenior producer: Annie JoyceEditor: Wendy Parker

The former Tory deputy chair, Lee Anderson, has refused to apologise for comments that saw him suspended from the party.He said he believed "Islamists" had "got control" of London's mayor Sadiq Khan - a remark Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called "unacceptable".But Mr Anderson isn't the only politician stoking racial divides, with Azhar Ali standing in this week's Rochdale by-election despite making antisemitic remarks that cost him Labour's backing.The tensions have left many MPs fearing for their personal safety as security has had to be ramped up for several of them.On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Jonathan Samuels speaks to deputy political editor Sam Coates about the toxicity in politics.Plus, Anna Firth, the Conservative MP for Southend West - where the late MP Sir David Amess was killed by an Islamic State sympathiser - describes what it's like to be a member of parliament in the current political climate.Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Wendy ParkerPromotion producer: David Chipakupaku

Two years on from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the war is largely at a stalemate but President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's troops face acute shortages of ammunition.Ukraine's cities still come under regular Russian bombardment, thousands of lives have been lost and many more displaced across Europe. Around 300,000 Ukrainians have applied for visas to come to the UK alone. Many more are in Poland and Germany. Tom Cheshire speaks to international correspondent John Sparks in Kharkiv about what life is like on the ground in Ukraine now and how Ukrainians are ready to continue the fight for their country. And we hear from Anfisa Vlasova who fled Kharkiv after the invasion to come to the UK on what life has been like here and how she and her fellow Ukrainian refugees feel about returning to their homeland. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Assistant producer: Iona BrunkerPromotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

The third largest party in the House of Commons, the SNP, says it doesn't have confidence in its Speaker, Lindsay Hoyle. The Speaker himself says he took decisions about how MPs debated and voted on calls for a ceasefire in Gaza because he wanted as broad a discussion as possible. He's apologised but said the safety of MPs on such a divisive issue was also on his mind. With thousands dead in Gaza and war continuing, the optics of MPs rowing about Commons procedure - rather than debating important international issues - have not sat well with everyone. Niall Paterson speaks to Dr Hannah White from the Institute for Government about why she thinks it's another example supporting the case for parliamentary reform. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood describes it as his "worst day in Parliament". He recently had dozens of anti-Israel protesters gather outside his home. And chief political correspondent Jon Craig picks over how the chamber moves on from this - and whether Lindsay Hoyle will stay in his job. Producers: Soila Apparicio, Alex Edden Assistant producer: Evan Dale Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Paul Stanworth

The former chair of the Post Office, Henry Staunton, who was dismissed last month, claims he was told by a top civil servant to "hobble into the election" and delay payouts to sub-postmasters, in a newly released memo. But Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch told MPs there's "no evidence whatsoever that this is true", and called his allegations "a disgrace". The row comes as only 5% of sub-postmaster claimants have received compensation for the Horizon IT scandal so far.Late on Wednesday evening, the government published a letter from Sarah Munby, the former permanent secretary to Kemi Badenoch, responding to claims in The Times that government officials told Mr Staunton to stall on compensation payments to wronged postmasters. The letter stated: "It is not true that I made any instruction, either explicitly or implicitly, to Mr Staunton to in anyway delay compensation payments. I did not."On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Labour MP and chair of the Business and Trade Committee, Liam Byrne, who says it's now his job at next Tuesday's committee to "flush out who is telling the truth".Plus, our deputy political editor Sam Coates discusses the fallout from the row. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Evan Dale Promotions producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

One of the world's most prolific cyber crime gangs has been taken down by law enforcement agencies including the FBI, Europol and the UK's National Crime Agency.Lockbit is an extortion website that held its victims' data for ransom - some of the biggest UK bodies affected were the Royal Mail and the NHS.Five Russians have been charged by US authorities and dozens of crypto accounts frozen.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by science and technology editor Tom Clarke and crime correspondent Martin Brunt to discuss what Lockbit is, Operation Cronos and what this means for other cyber gangs.Senior podcast producer: Annie JoycePromotions Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa JohnEditor: Wendy Parker

Hundreds of Russians have been detained at memorials to opposition politician Alexei Navalny. Navalny's mother and lawyers have been denied access to his body and authorities have not confirmed its exact whereabouts. Host Adam Parsons is joined by Sky News' Moscow correspondent, Diana Magnay, who has followed Navalny's journey for much of the past decade. She describes what’s happening in Russia, Navalny's legacy and the mood as people continue to pay their respects at makeshift memorials across the country. Adam also hears from Ekaterina Schulmann, a Russian political scientist in exile who has been marked as a foreign agent by Putin's government. Plus, Dr Maxim Alyukov, a political sociologist at King's College London, talks about the upcoming Russian election.Podcast Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse and Alex Edden Assistant Producer: Evan Dale Interviews Producer: Melissa Tutesigensi Promotions Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

Alexei Navalny, the most prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has died in jail. Barred in 2018 from running in elections, he remained Mr Putin's most powerful political opponent. He survived a novichok poisoning, after being treated in Germany. But still he chose to return to Russia knowing he would be arrested. He was just 47 when he died while serving a 19-year sentence on charges of extremism in a prison near the Arctic circle. Today on Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto speaks with our Moscow correspondent Diana Magnay about Mr Navalny's life and how his death will have an impact on his supporters in Russia. We'll also unpack Labour's win in two by-elections overnight with our political correspondent Rob Powell who is in Wellingborough, and what the results could mean for the next general election.Producers: Soila Apparicio, Sydney Pead Assistant Producer: Evan Dale Editor: Wendy Parker

Sky News’ economics and data editor Ed Conway looks at the implications of Britain entering recession on this episode. Although the two quarters of negative growth is a fairly arbitrary definition and could be revised, Ed tells host Greg Milam why the GDP per head figures is the one which could tell us more. They also discuss the political implications for Rishi Sunak who’d made growing the economy one of his big five pledges. Plus, Manchester restaurant owner Karina Jadhav on what recession means for her business. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producers: Evan Dale, Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotions producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

In his early weeks as Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer said: “It was very important to me to seek to address the disgrace of antisemitism in our party as soon as possible.” Almost four years on, and months out from a general election, he’s facing a new row about the extent of antisemitism within Labour. Three of his party’s politicians, including two who were standing for parliament, are now linked to a meeting of activists where it’s claimed antisemitic remarks were made. On this episode of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Alex Hearn, director of Labour Against Antisemitism, who says this week has been embarrassing for the Labour leader – who put tackling antisemitism at the centre of his political strategy. Plus, our political correspondent Serena Barker-Singh looks at how the party is trying to show its diligence in picking parliamentary candidates.A full list of the candidates standing in the Rochdale by-election can be found here. This episode contains strong language. Producers: Soila Apparicio, Alex EddenInterviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotions producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

Labour is no longer backing a candidate in the Rochdale by-election. Party spokespeople had been out to bat for local councillor Azhar Ali up until Monday afternoon - saying his comments about the Hamas attacks on Israel were informed by an online conspiracy theory and "didn't represent his view". By Monday evening, the full recording of his comments came to light - and Labour backtracked, saying he'd be on the ballot paper but no longer had its support. Sky's chief political correspondent Jon Craig reckons it's Sir Keir Starmer's "biggest crisis yet" - he joins Leah Boleto to explain why.And Leah speaks to marketing expert Catherine Shuttleworth about The Body Shop entering administration. They explore where it went wrong for the chain – and there's a bit of reminiscing about white musk and dewberry oil too. A full list of the candidates standing in the Rochdale byelection can be found here.Producers: Emma Rae Woodhouse and Alex EddenAssistant Producer: Iona BrunkerPromotions Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Paul Stanworth

The UK says Israel should "stop and think seriously", the US wants to see a credible plan for civilians - but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists an offensive in Rafah is needed to defeat Hamas.As Israel rescued two hostages in the southern city, dozens were killed in the airstrikes that accompanied the operation.There are now more than a million people in the city - with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees saying conditions are getting worse.So can Israel be convinced to pause any ground offensive?On this Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto speaks to our correspondent in Jerusalem, Diana Magnay, and defence and security analyst Professor Michael Clarke.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Paul Stanworth

A new report has suggested the state retirement age may need to rise to 71 to maintain the number of people who financially support the pension system - and it adds that it might need to happen as soon as 2040. On this Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson explores what effect this would have with pensions expert and Conservative peer, Baroness Ros Altmann. Plus, economist and co-author of The 100-Year Life, Andrew Scott, discusses why our outlook on retirement might need to change sooner than we think. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona BrunkerPromotion producer: Jonathan DayEditor: Wendy Parker

Joe Biden couldn't remember when he was vice president, according to a new report. And, according to the same investigation, he couldn't remember when his son died. Then, when trying to reassure everyone about the claims about his memory, he confused the presidents of Mexico and Egypt. Not ideal for someone who wants to run for president - and even worse for someone already doing the job. So what has the speculation done for his election chances this year - and for those of his rival, Donald Trump? Yalda Hakim presents this Sky News Daily with political strategist Hilary Rosen and pollster Scarlett Maguire. Senior podcast producer: Annie JoycePodcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Wendy Parker

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

Chants of 'shame' were heard during Prime Minister's Questions today, after Rishi Sunak made a cutting remark about trans-rights aimed towards Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer. The mother of Brianna Ghey was in Parliament today - just days after her daughter's killers were sentenced.Niall Paterson speaks to our political correspondent, Amanda Akass, about the prime minister's comments and the backlash. Also - should the government pay compensation to the thousands of victims who suffered injuries from pelvic mesh implants and the epilepsy drug, Valproate?It follows a new report calling on the government to urgently set up a financial package worth half a billion pounds, after Sky News reported regulators knew of the effects of Valproate since the 1970s but failed to disclose them to patients.Our home editor, Jason Farrell, looks at the prospects the victims have of receiving compensation, and the damage caused by the scandal. Podcast producers: Alex Edden and Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Evan Dale Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotions Producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

In Buckingham Palace’s statement about the King’s cancer diagnosis, it said: “His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.” Britain still lags behind comparable countries when it comes to improving cancer survival rates. So what’s a more typical NHS experience for the almost 400,000 cases diagnosed each year – including the wait between diagnosis and treatment. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson explores the issue with our data and forensics correspondent, Tom Cheshire, and Dr Katharine Halliday, president of The Royal College of Radiologists. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producers: Evan Dale and Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Paul Stanworth

Buckingham Palace has revealed King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer. While it's not been revealed what type he's being treated for, we know it's not prostate cancer. The announcement marks a big shift in how much the public is being told about a British monarch's health. On this special episode of the Sky News Daily, Mark Austin takes a closer look at what we know so far, its significance and what might happen next with our royal correspondent, Rhiannon Mills and Sky's royal commentator, Alistair Bruce. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Assistant podcast producer: Evan Dale Editor: Dave Terris

Two years after power-sharing collapsed in Northern Ireland, Stormont is back in business with Sinn Fein’s Michelle O’Neill becoming its first nationalist First Minister. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak met leaders of the new restored devolved government, asking them to focus on day-to-day issues rather than the issue of Irish unity. On the Sky News Daily, Jonathan Samuels looks at how much closer we could be to a united Ireland. He’s joined by our senior Ireland correspondent David Blevins to explain the significance of Michelle O’Neill’s historic appointment, while Deirdre Heenan, professor of social policy at Ulster University, and Brian Feeney, historian and political columnist with the Irish News, explore the reunification debate. Podcast producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Junior podcast producer: Evan DaleInterviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Wendy Parker

The names of two teenagers who murdered 16-year-old schoolgirl Brianna Ghey have been revealed for the first time just hours before they were sentenced. Sixteen-year-olds Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe, who were both 15 at the time of the attack in Warrington, Cheshire, last February, were told they will spend a minimum of 22 and 20 years in prison respectively. Under-18s are not usually named in the UK criminal justice system for welfare reasons but judges can make exceptions if they think it is in the public interest. This case has reignited the debate over whether children who kill should ever be named.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson explores the issue with Laura O’Brien, who represents children and young adults at Hodge Jones and Allen Solicitors, and David James Smith, author of The Sleep of Reason: The James Bulger Case. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

Labour’s Rachel Reeves wants to be the next chancellor. She’s used an event in London to try to convince hundreds of business leaders that her party is the best option for the British economy. The shadow chancellor said she’d cap corporation tax at 25% for five years if she’s the one moving into 11 Downing Street. But when asked by Sky News if Labour will drop plans to spend £28bn a year on green energy, she wasn’t so committed. On the Sky News Daily, Sophy Ridge sits in for Niall Paterson to discuss if Labour is convincing business with its message. She’s joined by economics and data editor Ed Conway. Plus, Paul Drechsler, president of the Society of Chemical Industry (SCI) - and both a former CBI president and ex-prime minister David Cameron's 'skills tsar' - to find out why he believes that Labour is "winning" the economic argument. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Paul Stanworth

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has told the COVID Inquiry: "I was the first minister when the pandemic struck and part of me wishes I hadn't been.” She denied that she used platforms including WhatsApp to have serious policy discussions. She said she'd deleted messages but relevant information was all on public records. On this Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson goes through her answers with Scotland correspondent Connor Gillies. They also talk about whether the pandemic claims have damaged her leadership legacy. Plus, with claims of key Tory cabinet names being part of an "Evil Plotters" WhatsApp group this week - our deputy political editor Sam Coates on the impact WhatsApp messages are having on politics. Producers: Soila Apparicio and Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Promotions producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Paul Stanworth

After nearly two years of political deadlock in Northern Ireland, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) agreed a deal on Monday to restore power sharing to the country, which will be subject to legislation by the UK government. The DUP walked out over post-Brexit trade arrangements that created trade barriers between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. There's been a big impact on public services and a new power sharing government is being promised over £3bn to spend on them. And new post Brexit border controls coming in from 31 January could result higher prices and delays in fresh goods coming in from the EU. On the Sky News Daily with Niall Paterson, our senior Ireland correspondent David Blevins takes us through the significance of the DUP’s agreement. Plus, our business correspondent Paul Kelso explains the latest warnings on trade with Patricia Michelson, founder of London cheese chain La Fromagerie which has been importing artisan cheese from Europe for 40 years. Producer: Emma Rae WoodhouseSenior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-CharlesPromotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

Something a little different today from the Sky News podcast team: episode 1 of Patient 11, a new investigation from Sky News and the Independent.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 episode 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.

Benjamin Netanyahu is Israel’s longest serving prime minister but also one of the most divisive figures in Israeli politics. He was facing huge protests from Israelis against his government long before the October 7 terrorist attacks, and now he is under growing pressure from both inside Israel and from his international allies over his Gaza strategy. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson takes a closer look at the man himself, how he has managed to survive so long at the forefront of Israeli politics and whether Gaza could change that. Niall’s joined by our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall as they discuss Netanyahu’s unpopularity, his record and stance on a two-state solution. Plus, Israeli political analyst Daliah Scheindlin on how long she thinks Israel’s PM can maintain his grip on power. Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Promotion producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Wendy Parker

The man who killed three people, and injured three others, has been sentenced to detention in a high-security hospital – with the judge saying he'll probably remain there for the rest of his life. Valdo Calocane fatally stabbed 19-year-olds Barnaby Webber and Grace O'Malley-Kumar and school caretaker Ian Coates in Nottingham in June last year. Speaking outside court, relatives of the victims criticised police, prosecutors and the NHS – saying they felt "let down" as Calocane’s mental health issues were widely known. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson looks at what more could have been done to prevent the killings as he's joined by our communities correspondent Becky Johnson and Lisa Townsend, who is Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey and mental health lead for the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners.Since recording this episode, Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said the organisation had "robustly" reviewed its care of Calocane between May 2020 and September 2020. It added that it will continue to work with the police and health services to learn lessons. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

The head of the British Army has said we should "train and equip" a "citizen army" to prepare the country for any potential land war.The comments from General Sir Patrick Sanders, who stands down as chief of the general staff in six months, are being seen as a warning that British men and women could be called up to the armed forces if NATO was to go to war with Russia.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson gets reaction from former defence secretary Sir Michael Fallon and Sky's defence analyst Professor Michael Clarke as they examine the UK's military preparedness.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Sydney PeadInterviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

A second major wave of airstrikes has been carried out by American and British forces on Houthi targets in Yemen in response to the group's attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea. The first round of strikes did not deter the Houthis from continuing to attack shipping and the prime minister was pushed in the House of Commons today on what Britain's long-term strategy would be if the Houthis keep up their attacks. On this episode of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by military analyst Michael Clarke and Sky's international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to analyse the latest decisions made in the conflict. Plus, Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates discusses the politics behind the strikes and what the endgame looks like on home soil. Producer: Alex EddenEditor: Wendy Parker

Throughout the 2000s, serious allegations of child sex abuse became known to Greater Manchester Police. Girls as young as 11 were identified as potential victims. An independent review covering a period between 2004 and 2013, which was published last week, detailed multiple failed investigations by police and an apparent indifference to the safety of the young girls identified as possible victims. Now, one anonymous whistleblower who resigned from GMP last year says the force has not changed and that failures have left a paedophile ring at large for at least seven years. On the Sky News Daily, presenter Anna Jones is joined by our home editor Jason Farrell who has spoken to the anonymous former detective constable. Plus, ex-GMP detective constable Maggie Oliver, who blew the whistle on the poor handling of the Rochdale child sex abuse ring case by the force years ago, reacts to the new accusations. Producers: Soila Apparicio and Alex Edden Promotions producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Wendy Parker

Former prime minister Gordon Brown told Sky News he was too old to be a politician in the UK but too young to be one in the US. He has a point, with Americans set to choose between 81-year-old Joe Biden or 77-year-old Donald Trump in November's presidential election, while here in Europe, France's new prime minister is 34-year-old Gabriel Attal. On the Sky News Daily, host Niall Paterson explores whether there is a perfect age for our politicians. He talks to Labour's Harriet Harman, who is the longest-serving woman MP and 'Mother of the House of Commons'. The 73-year-old representative for Camberwell and Peckham has been an MP for more than 40 years. Niall also speaks to Amy Callaghan, SNP MP for East Dunbartonshire, who was elected in 2019 aged 27. They discuss what makes a good MP, the challenges women MPs face when elected, and if age in politics is just a number. Producer: Soila Apparicio Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Wendy Parker

The Home Office says it has closed 50 hotels to asylum seekers - something it had pledged to do by the end of this month with a promise to house them in cheaper types of accommodation like the Bibby Stockholm barge. But Sky News has found that asylum seekers are simply being taken from taxpayer-funded hotels and moved to other hotels. Our reporters have seen taxis full of migrants leaving one hotel only to arrive at another 70 miles away. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to our communities correspondent Becky Johnson and her producer Nick Stylianou who have been investigating. Plus, deputy political editor Sam Coates analyses Rishi Sunak's morning news conference to journalists, after seeing off a Tory rebellion over his Rwanda bill on Wednesday. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Alex Edden Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editors: Philly Beaumont and Dave Terris

Rishi Sunak has faced the toughest test of his premiership as MPs voted to save the government's Rwanda policy. The measures aimed at tackling the small boats crisis form the core of Mr Sunak's election strategy.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson looks at the fallout of the vote with our deputy political editor Sam Coates, as they discuss what it means for the prime minister's political future. Podcast producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont