Politics Weekly UK

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.

Former prime minister David Cameron is appointed as foreign secretary, while controversial home secretary Suella Braverman is sacked. The wider implications of these moves are discussed, including the lack of fresh talent in the Conservative Party and the potential challenges and opportunities it presents. Other topics covered include the Supreme Court ruling on the Rwanda policy, changes in the British government, potential NHS crisis, and Labour's response to the election and cabinet reshuffle.

Rishi Sunak set out his priorities for the year ahead in the king’s speech on Tuesday. But his home secretary, Suella Braverman, continues to grab the headlines with comments about the homeless and an awkward stand-off with the Met police over pro-Palestine marches. The Guardian’s Kiran Stacey speaks to former Conservative adviser Salma Shah and Guardian political correspondent Aletha Adu. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Besides the swearing, toxic workplace culture and misogyny, what have we learned from the Covid inquiry? Gaby Hinsliff talks to the Guardian’s political editor, Pippa Crerar. And our political correspondent Kiran Stacey tells us how significant the government’s first artificial intelligence summit will be. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Israel vowed to ‘teach the UN a lesson’ in reaction to a speech given by the UN’s secretary general, António Guterres. The Guardian’s Gaby Hinsliff is joined by the paper’s defence and security editor, Dan Sabbagh, to discuss what this could mean for the conflict, and Guardian columnist Aditya Chakrabortty talks about the growing row in Labour over Keir Starmer’s stance on Israel’s military strategy. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod