Dorries Seems to be the Hardest Word – plus guest Stella Creasy MP
Aug 30, 2023
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Labour MP for Walthamstow, Stella Creasy, joins the hosts to discuss the abysmal parliamentary standards of the Tory government. They also explore how Labour can repair the problems created by Brexit and advocate for a closer relationship with Europe. The need for a codified constitution and inclusivity in candidate selection for elections are also discussed. Brexit's impact on the economy and the challenges of advocating for rejoining the EU are addressed. The panelists also share their escape routes from busy lives and recommend TV shows.
Parliamentary standards of the government are abysmal, with reactive changes to MP's behavior.
Establishing an ethics and integrity commission as an independent watchdog is necessary for addressing politicians' unethical behaviors and lack of accountability.
Despite the challenges created by Brexit, it is crucial to focus on finding a better relationship with Europe and addressing trade disruptions and higher prices.
Deep dives
Political disillusionment and the need for constitutional reform
In this podcast episode, the panel discusses the growing disillusionment with politics and the need for constitutional reform. The panel acknowledges the brokenness of the system, citing examples of MPs' unethical behaviors and the lack of accountability. They argue for the establishment of an ethics and integrity commission as an independent watchdog to address these issues. They also highlight the importance of engaging the younger generation who did not experience freedom of movement or Erasmus, and the need for a future-focused argument in favor of a closer relationship with the EU.
Trust and credibility of politicians
The panel addresses the diminishing trust and credibility of politicians, particularly regarding issues like conflicts of interest and lobbying. They criticize the declaration of conflicts of interest as a mere formality and emphasize the need for stronger regulations. The discussion highlights the importance of restoring faith in politics by holding politicians accountable and reforming the current system.
Moving forward from Brexit and reevaluating relationships
The panel explores the aftermath of Brexit and the importance of reevaluating relationships with the EU. They advocate for a more proactive approach in addressing the challenges caused by Brexit, such as trade disruptions and higher prices. While acknowledging the reluctance to revisit the Brexit debate, they stress the need to focus on future possibilities, mutualization, and finding a better relationship with Europe in the coming years.
The importance of having more time to pick and vet political candidates
One key point discussed in the podcast is the importance of having sufficient time to select and vet political candidates. In previous elections, there was a limited timeframe, resulting in the selection of candidates who may not have been the best fit. However, with more time, parties can now carefully choose candidates who come from diverse backgrounds, including those with non-traditional political experiences or single parents.
The need for a change in the culture and behavior in the House of Commons
Another main idea explored in the podcast is the need to address the culture and behavior within the House of Commons. There is a concern about the mistreatment and abuse of employees, including bullying and harassment. It is suggested that the current structures and processes within the House of Commons contribute to this problem, as there is a lack of HR support and intervention. There is also a discussion about the outdated and adversarial nature of the building itself, which may not be conducive to positive behavior. Overall, there is a call for change and a recognition that these issues need to be addressed to create a healthier, more respectful working environment.
Nadine Dorries has finally gone (we think), but her behaviour will stick in our minds forever. She’s not the only Tory MP to have let us all down over the last 13 years. So why are the parliamentary standards of this government so abysmal? Plus, a closer relationship with Europe could be key to the UK’s future. So how does Labour go about that, especially when it persists with its messaging that it will ‘make Brexit work’? That’s Oh God, What Now? with special guest, Labour MP for Walthamstow, Stella Creasy.
“This government has made it easier for people to be sacked… but not in Parliament.” – Stella Creasy.
“All the rules changes, in terms of MP’s behaviour, are changed reactively.” – Marie Le Conte.
“You can’t make Brexit work. The only thing you can do is to repair the problems it has created.” – Stella Creasy.
Presented by Alex Andreou with Matt Green, Marie Le Conte and guest, Labour MP for Walthamstow Stella Creasy. Producers: Alex Rees & Chris Jones. Assistant Producer: Adam Wright. Social Media Producer: Jess Harpin. Audio production by: Alex Rees. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. OH GOD, WHAT NOW? is a Podmasters production.