Tim Minogue

Tim Minogue, a seasoned correspondent for Private Eye, shares his insights after 26 years covering Rotten Boroughs. He discusses how Trump's presidency has skewed Britain's media focus, overshadowing local issues with sensational U.S. news. The crew dives into the intricate challenges of housing development, the absurdities of local governance, and the dire need for accountability in journalism. With a mix of humor and critical analysis, they highlight the chaotic intersection of political narratives and the reality faced by citizens.

Political scandals expert Tim Minogue joins the hosts to discuss the fallout of local elections, mayoral races, financial woes of councils, political funding challenges, media controversies, historical espionage, and how Private Eye outed a spy.

Tim Minogue, Private Eye's Rotten Boroughs correspondent, uncovers the gripping saga of a pub landlord unjustly bankrupted and imprisoned by local council actions. After two decades, he finally attains justice. Rachael Claye, the housing correspondent, dives deep into the government's cladding crisis, revealing the impact of unsafe materials on leaseholders post-Grenfell. She scrutinizes the government's promises, questioning their effectiveness amid ongoing financial burdens and accountability issues faced by developers and manufacturers.

In this discussion, Richard Brooks shares insights from his pilgrimage to Kent, revealing the hidden chaos surrounding Brexit logistics. Tim Minogue highlights the unintended consequences of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods, balancing traffic reduction with challenges for emergency services. Meanwhile, Francis Wheen reflects on the retirement of a notable journalist, examining the ethical dilemmas intertwined with media influence and state-sponsored narratives, particularly regarding China's presence in the UK.

Ian Hislop, Editor of Private Eye, shares his sharp insights into the challenges of court reporting, especially in sensitive abuse cases. Jane Mackenzie discusses the complexities of the Anglesey trial and its implications for accountability in governance. Tim Minogue brightens the conversation with an interactive map exposing councillors’ financial misdeeds. The trio dives into the murky waters of fake news, exploring its motivations and the role journalists must play in fostering transparency, all wrapped in humor and keen observation.