Jane Mackenzie

Phil Hammond, a prominent medical correspondent, shares insights on the future of Covid, touching on vaccine strategies and the balance between public health and personal freedoms. Jane Mackenzie dives into the contentious issues surrounding Stonehenge, discussing traffic congestion caused by tourism and the proposed solutions like a tunnel. They delve into the complexities of preserving this ancient site while addressing modern infrastructure needs, underscoring the importance of heritage in decision-making processes.

The team discusses the collapse of RAC concrete, school building safety and government responsibility, the challenges of deteriorating concrete, school refurbishment funding, controversial figures Liz Truss and Mohammed Fayed, an unexpected politician's rise, and alleged Chinese spies in British universities.

Matt Muir, an expert in AI technology, discusses the potential dangers of innovations like ChatGPT and their implications for humanity. He raises concerns about job security and misinformation alongside the ethical challenges of unregulated AI systems. Jane Mackenzie highlights the environmental impacts of open-cast mining in Wales, focusing on the Fossivran Coal Mine and the ongoing oversight issues that compromise restoration efforts. Their conversations underscore the urgent need for accountability in both technology and environmental practices.

Jane Mackenzie and Karen Liebreich tackle the urgent sewage crisis polluting Britain's rivers, discussing regulatory failures and the impact of privatization on water companies. They shed light on the pollution from permitted sewage discharges and the Environment Agency's struggles to enforce accountability. Meanwhile, Dr. Grim reveals the harrowing conditions in the Iranian prison system, exposing human rights abuses and the silencing of dissent. The podcast weaves together environmental issues and urgent human rights concerns, shedding light on critical global challenges.

Antony Goldman, who compiles Private Eye's international letters, joins Dr Grim, the publication's human rights correspondent, and Jane Mackenzie, covering the impact of COVID-19 on education. They reveal how Russia has practiced for its war on Ukraine through conflicts in Eastern Europe. The trio discusses historical ties and manipulations by Russia in Moldova and Georgia. Jane highlights the government's flawed Covid-catch-up program for schools, criticizing the funding issues that left many students without adequate support.