Pod Save the UK

Democracy for sale, Europe’s first black leader + tea with Obama

Mar 21, 2024

Discussing political corruption, a historic moment in Welsh politics with the first black leader in Europe, and the surprise visit of Obama for tea. Plus, insights into donation impact on politics, Welsh leader's challenges, and the importance of independent journalism. A Glasgow record shop raises funds for medical aid in a unique way. Humorous takes on Prince Andrew and contact details for the podcast.

54:58

Creator website

Episode guests

Peter Geoghagen

Will Hayward

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Political funding raises questions on transparency and influence in democracy.

Appointment of Europe's first black leader sparks challenges and discussions on representation.

Royal PR mishaps prompt scrutiny on communication strategies and public perception.

Deep dives

Monorail Music Raises Funds for Medical Aid for Palestine

Monorail Music in Glasgow raised £2,250 for medical aid for Palestine by auctioning backdrops from a poorly received Willy Wonka-inspired attraction that they found in a bin. The auction was won by singer-songwriter Ben Howard, and the money raised went to a great cause.

Introduction

2min

Political Turmoil and Prominent Leaders in the UK

12min

The Challenges and Optimism of Wales' New Political Leader

7min

The Influence of Political Donations on British Politics

22min

Importance of Supporting Independent Journalism for Scrutinizing Political Matters

2min

Innovative Fundraising for Medical Aid

7min

Humorous Reflections on Prince Andrew, Contact Information, and Promotions

2min

This week Nish and Coco ask if our politics is on sale to those with the deepest pockets? The Conservative Party would love us all to move on from the row around the £15 million donation from Frank Hester, but it’s a story that highlights the often murky world of political funding. Nish and Coco talk to investigative journalist Peter Geoghagen about what the rules are, what donors get for their money, and whether there’s a better way to do it.

Dodgy donations have also cast a bit of a cloud over a momentous week in Welsh politics, which saw the appointment of Vaughan Gething as the first black leader of a European country. Journalist Will Hayward explains why it hasn’t been an easy ride for him so far and why he’s got a rocky road ahead. Plus in other news, MP’s and Lords play ‘ping pong’ with the Government’s Rwanda Bill, and there’s a new name in the Tory leadership frame.

Competent and popular politician spotted at Downing Street shock: Nish and Coco discuss President Obama’ popping in for a cup of tea with Rishi Sunak. Plus a new sighting of Princess Kate raises more questions about the royal PR machine. In this week’s hero and villain, find out why a Glasgow record shop has amused Nish and why a Lord has annoyed Coco.

Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.

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Guests:

Will Hayward, Welsh affairs editor at WalesOnline

Peter Geoghagen, investigative journalist and author of the Democracy for Sale Substack

Audio credits:

ITV News