Lucy Porter, Tom Ballard, Anushka Asthana, and Mark Steel join Andy Zaltzman to discuss the world's most obvious spy, the most awkward train ride, the UK's worst road, China's growing influence, the Midnight Train to Georgia, and the debate around changing Australia's constitution to include a First Nations voice to Parliament.
China is increasingly seen as a threat to Britain, sparking discussions about formally designating it under security laws.
Labour leader Keir Starmer's pledge to treat people smugglers as terrorists has sparked a political debate on immigration and border control.
Deep dives
The Threat of Chinese Spies in the UK
There are increasing concerns in the West about China, with a parliamentary researcher being arrested on suspicion of spying for China. This development has led to discussions about whether China should be formally designated as a threat to Britain under security laws. There are also growing tensions between China and the UK, with both sides trading accusations and denials. The UK is considering using technology to counter China's numerical advantage in personnel, including their two million-strong army. Former Prime Minister Liz Truss has described China as the greatest threat Britain faces.
Labour's Tough Stance on People Smugglers
Labour leader Keir Starmer has pledged to treat people smugglers as terrorists if he becomes Prime Minister. While this approach has received some support as many consider people smugglers to be despicable individuals, it has also faced criticism. The Tories have accused Labour of planning to bring in more migrants by treating people smugglers as terrorists. The issue of immigration and asylum has become a political battleground, and Labour's stance on people smugglers is seen as an attempt to show toughness on border control.
The M6 Retains its Title as Britain's Worst Motorway
Once again, the M6 has been voted as Britain's worst motorway in a survey of motorists. This 230-mile-long motorway, which stretches from the Midlands to the Scottish border, has faced criticism for being congested, confusing, and dangerous. The smart motorway system implemented on the M6 has also received backlash for its perceived flaws. Despite ongoing improvements and attempts to alleviate the issues, the M6 remains infamous among drivers as a source of frustration due to heavy traffic and frequent delays.