Politics Weekly UK

The podcast discusses the financial challenges faced by local councils in England, including bankruptcy and the inability to borrow money. It explores the impact of previous cuts on services and the need for a national debate on the role of local government. The dire financial situation of local councils, causes of bankruptcies, and the government's approach to council cuts are also highlighted. The hosts explore the impact of 'ambient austerity' on political engagement and the need for collaboration between national and local government to tackle public sphere repair and renewal.

As tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, this week John Harris speaks to Niku Jafarnia of Human Rights Watch about the regional conflicts. The Rwanda bill passed its third reading and Pippa Crerar, the Guardian’s political editor, reveals what happened behind the scenes. And the former No 10 adviser Gavin Barwell talks about the increasingly vicious struggles within the Conservative party. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The government has announced it will introduce legislation to exonerate the many hundreds of postal workers affected by the Post Office Horizon software scandal. So is the only way to turn the government’s head to an issue to make a TV drama about it? The Guardian’s John Harris speaks to former postal worker Chris Head about the impact it had on him, and columnist Gaby Hinsliff about what this tells us about our creaking institutions. Plus, columnist Rafael Behr joins John to look at the year ahead. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Politics Weekly UK is taking a break. So this week John Harris revisits a conversation with the Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee and political reporter Aletha Adu about what a Labour government would look like and why it feels like Keir Starmer has a lot of convincing to do. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The hosts review the major political events of the past year, including Boris Johnson's downfall and accountability for lying to Parliament. They discuss changing perceptions of public services and immigration, the government's evolving position on Gaza, and the lack of public outrage. They also explore government support for a ceasefire and the potential shift towards the Green Party among younger voters. The timing of the upcoming election is debated, with concerns about a disunited party. The episode concludes with Christmas greetings and a charity appeal.

The government’s landmark Rwanda bill was voted through on Tuesday night. With the issue threatening to tear the Conservatives apart, the Guardian’s John Harris is joined by political correspondent Kiran Stacey and columnist Sonia Sodha to discuss the challenges facing the prime minister. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Rishi Sunak attempts to quash critics of his Rwanda plan with a surprise press conference. Boris Johnson finishes two days of questioning at the Covid inquiry, leaving disappointing answers and a desire for accountability. The podcast explores the political landscape, divisions within the Conservative Party on immigration, and the potential downfall of the current government.

Discussion on COP28, the annual climate summit in Dubai, and the challenges faced. The conflict of interest involving the head of an oil company running a climate change conference. The importance of finance in addressing climate change and supporting the poorest countries. The role of citizen's assemblies in driving climate action. The challenge of achieving sustainable growth while mitigating climate change. Exploring feelings of fear and sadness, and the concept of eco-grief.

Jeremy Hunt, former Treasury minister, joins John Harris and Pippa Crerar to discuss tax cuts, getting people back to work, and the challenges the government faces. They also touch on the impact of the benefits system on the unemployed, the political debate on economic growth, and the government's failure to invest in infrastructure.

The Supreme Court ruled the Tory government's Rwanda policy unlawful; discussion on the legal challenges and human rights concerns surrounding the deportation plan. The Tory party's history of migration pledges and the UK's relationship with the EU and global trade agreements. Dramatic resignations and rebellion within the Labour Party, putting pressure on Keir Starmer. Analysis of leadership qualities and political calculations and their impact on the party, government, and public perception.