Electoral Dysfunction

Robert Jenrick joins Reform and becomes the party’s second big name defection from the Tories in days – after former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi jumped ship earlier in the week.So is this a big blow to Kemi Badenoch? Beth, Ruth and Harriet think she’s come out of it all pretty well after dramatically sacking her former leadership rival before he could jump ship.How much will the Tories miss Jenrick? And how will he get on working with Nigel Farage, his new leader? The ladies look back at some of Farage’s past comments about Jenrick.You can WhatsApp the podcast at 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Harriet and Ruth on YouTube.

“We feel bullied” - former Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt joins Beth, Harriet, and Ruth on this week’s Electoral Dysfunction, as Denmark finds itself at the centre of a growing international crisis over Greenland. Thorning-Schmidt describes how it feels for a small nation to be pressured by a far more powerful ally. As Donald Trump revives his threats over Greenland, the trio examine what this moment means for NATO, international law, and the rules-based order plus whether the UK’s special relationship with the US actually matters anymore. You can WhatsApp the podcast at 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk. And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Harriet and Ruth on YouTube.

This is the second episode of our two-part New Year special. As Britain approaches 10 years since the Brexit referendum, Beth Rigby sits down with former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg to ask what really went wrong, and why the consequences have been far worse than predicted.From the failures of the Remain campaign to the rise of grievance politics, Clegg argues Brexit was an elite-driven project that has left the UK poorer, weaker and more dependent on American tech. He also explains why he believes Britain will ultimately return to the European fold - and what has to change before that can happen.You can WhatsApp the podcast at 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.Follow Electoral Dysfunction wherever you get your podcasts: https://podfollow.com/electoraldysfunction/.

This is the first episode of our two-part New Year special. Ten years on from the referendum that rewired British politics, Beth, Ruth and Harriet are joined by one of the architects of Brexit, Michael Gove, to rewind through some of the biggest moments. From David Cameron's surprise 2015 decision to take a gamble and call the referendum, to the brutal tribalism of a campaign that forced the country into a choice between two tick boxes. Ruth and Harriet take us through the Remain campaign and give their takes on why it didn't always cut through – while Michael Gove reveals why he first thought a referendum was a mistake, the friendships it fractured, the high-stakes calculations that pulled key figures into the Leave campaign, Boris Johnson’s “star signing” and the effort to keep Nigel Farage off the biggest stages. And he tells the ladies he regrets pulling the rug from under Boris Johnson when he was trying to become Prime Minister after the Brexit vote. You can WhatsApp the podcast at 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Harriet and Ruth on YouTube.

Get ready for some festive fun as the hosts tackle the quirkiest side of politics! Discover which Prime Minister had the absolute worst Christmas, complete with hilarious anecdotes. Ever wondered about Larry the Cat's holiday feast? They reveal his special treats! Learn what goes on at Chequers during the holidays and join a spirited debate on Brussels sprouts, featuring culinary tips from a renowned chef. Don't miss the lighthearted reflections on Secret Santa within the House of Commons!

The discussion dives into the pressing issue of teaching boys about sexual violence in today's culture. Jess Phillips highlights Labour's focused strategy on prevention and accountability. The hosts debate the role of education and parental responsibility in shaping attitudes. They also tackle the impact of online misogyny and the need for proactive engagement with boys. Insights are shared on political shifts and potential winners in the coming years, all while emphasizing the urgency of fostering positive male role models.

The discussion heats up in Westminster as Labour faces internal unrest with a new cabinet member joining. Delving into the urgent findings of Baroness Amos's report on maternal care, personal stories reveal systemic failings. The hosts reflect on Labour's evolving stance on Europe and the complications of post-Brexit trade. As they explore Starmer’s leadership dilemmas, they debate whether he is building necessary alliances or struggling in isolation. Amidst these political dynamics, the urgent need for reform in women's health services takes center stage.

In this discussion, Matthew Doyle, former director of communications at Number 10, dives into Labour's initial months of governance and the intricate art of political messaging. The conversation explores allegations of misleading the public regarding budget forecasts, prompting a debate about trust and transparency between the government and the media. Doyle highlights the need for clearer narratives and on-the-record briefings, while addressing the challenges of maintaining message coherence amid competing priorities. Expect insights into how political leaders can regain narrative control!

A political earthquake erupts as a significant budget is revealed, driven by a dramatic leak from the Office for Budget Responsibility. Tensions rise after Kemi Badenoch's fiery response, stirring debates about tax rises and public trust. The hosts delve into how the leak skewed advantages, budget implications, and whether Labour’s actions breach prior manifesto promises. The discussion touches on public welfare measures, the perception of the party as a tax-rising entity, and the challenges of regaining voter trust amid contentious debates on tax and welfare reforms.

The discussion heats up around Shabana Mahmood's bold immigration policies, drawing inspiration from Denmark. She challenges the Labour Party's historical stance while leveraging her background to address migration. Is she the new Margaret Thatcher, stirring leadership intrigue? The hosts also dive into the budget debates, including potential changes to child benefits and income tax, reflecting party divides. Public support for Mahmood's proposals adds another layer to the political drama as tensions rise within Labour.