What a year! While Rishi Sunak held true to his January commitment to hold the election in the second half of the year - the spectacle that followed couldn't have been predicted as 2024 dawned. Nish and Coco are joined by Sky News’ political correspondent Liz Bates and comedian Desiree Burch to chew over the gristle of the year that was. From racist Tory donors, to milkshaked MPs, creative political stunts and Rishi Sunak’s D-Day disaster - the first half of the year had plenty to keep us entertained. But once Labour took power - optimism quickly turned to gloom. The seven week garm-drama saga took the sheen off Keir Starmer’s newly minted cabinet, while the endless don't-call-it-austerity chat has jaded people across the country.As 2024 draws to a close - there’s still plenty to laugh about - including the best of the worst political pop songs of the year. Prepare to cringe. Useful Links: https://choose.love/ - make a donation now!  Ed Davey and the Bath Philharmonic Carer’s Choir - Love is Enough https://linktr.ee/love.is.enoughGuests: Liz BatesDesiree Burch Audio credits: Sky NewsBBCITVChannel 4 Tiktok / Dawn ButlerLiberal DemocratsTalk TVFox News Via Channel 10 Australia Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK


Just Stop Politics - 2024 Wrapped! w/ Desiree Burch and Liz Bates

In the same week FIFA decided an appalling human rights record is no obstacle to Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 World Cup, Keir Starmer was schmoozing the kingdom's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. What lengths will our former human rights lawyer PM go to in his pursuit of growth? Joey Shea from Human Rights Watch takes us through what went down during the visit.Back home, the government is talking up its plans to build 1.5 million new homes. Housing journalist Vicky Spratt joins Nish and Coco to assess whether  Labour can pull off  the biggest home building initiative since the second world war.And Pod Save The UK has found the perfect job for the royal family: Trump whisperers. Prince William was hastily wheeled out in Paris to charm the President and Nish and Coco explore why Trump has a weird soft spot for the Windsors. Guests:Vicky SprattJoey Shea Audio Credits:Sky NewsUK Government Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK


FIFA World Cup: Trade Deals 1, Human Rights Nil

As Masterchef’s Gregg Wallace faces a stream of allegations about inappropriate behaviour at work, Nish and Coco take on the entertainment industry’s toxic culture. Nish gives an insider’s view of why change is long overdue in an industry that enables massive egos, bad behaviour, even abuse. And Coco argues that to take women’s safety seriously we need to start with zero tolerance on bullying banter.Meanwhile, Keir Starmer’s reset this week promises to focus on working people’s priorities but is this going to deliver results. And is Labour missing a trick? Journalist Zoë Grünewald on why the government needs a big vision for young people.And with Reform UK support on the rise and soaring youth unemployment, is the left in danger of losing young voters to the right? Jacob Diggle of UK Youth joins us with solutions to get young people into work or study.Guests:Zoë GrünewaldJacob Diggle Useful Links:UK Youth https://www.ukyouth.org Audio  Credits:Sky NewsBBC Radio 4Parliament TV Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK


Toxic men and toxic politics: the problem with Gregg Wallace and Nigel Farage

This Friday, MPs are challenged with an enormous question of conscience - should we allow people with six months left to live the right to die at a time of their choosing? Joining Nish and Coco is Rosena Allin-Khan, Labour MP for Tooting and A&amp;E Doctor, to help us understand the strong feelings on both sides of the debate, the difficult decision that MPs are grappling with and how she decided which way she will vote.As the UK reels in the wake of Storm Bert, climate change lawyer Tessa Khan celebrates a victory in the legal fight against fossil fuels and tells us why the UK could lead the world on the environment.A petition calling for a General Election only months after the last one makes Nish’s blood boil. And have you ever wondered what  Keir Starmer likes to cook? A clue: it involves pasta, and it’s not very exciting. ** We have a special competition for listeners to win tickets to a special preview screening of the film Rumours, starring Cate Blanchett, next Thursday 05/12/24. To win up to two tickets,  we’re asking what your political highlight was this year - they can be funny, sad, insightful or inspiring. To enter, fill in this form: https://tinyurl.com/45s5uz7t   ** Guests:Rosena Allin-KhanTessa Khan Useful Links:Stop Rosebank - https://www.stopcambo.org.uk/ Audio Credits:ITV NewsLBCBBC Sky News  Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUK


Who gets to decide how we die? w/ Rosena Allin-Khan MP

Russia’s war with Ukraine is escalating dramatically - as we record reports have begun to emerge about Ukraine firing British long-range “Storm Shadow” missiles into Russia. Nish and Coco are joined on the couch by Stephen Bush, associate editor at the Financial Times, to discuss the chance of...World War Three?Meanwhile - closer to home - we find out why farmers are descending on Westminster. How big a blow is the Government’s budget for farmers and will Labour face a wipe out of rural supporters?And as Elon Musk is summoned to testify about X’s role in the UK summer riots, we’ll be speaking to Jamie Bartlett misinformation expert and host of hit podcasts “The Missing Cryptoqueen” and “The Gatekeepers” about Musk’s influence in politics and if we should all be quitting X.Guests:Stephen BushJamie Bartlett  Useful Links:Jamie Bartlett’s Substack - How to Survive the Internethttps://substack.com/@jamiejbartlett Jamie Bartlett's BBC Radio 4 podcast on the rise of social media's power - The Gatekeepers https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001w207  Audio Credits:Sky NewsBBCInstagram / Rebecca WilsonITV News  Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk 


How to avoid World War 3 + why won’t Elon Musk Leave the UK alone? W/ Jamie Bartlett & Stephen Bush

President-elect Donald Trump has a strong stance on many issues, from isolationism to border control, not to mention he’s an open climate change denier. Is his political platform already shaping UK party politics? Nish and Coco chat to Sky News Political Editor and host of Electoral Dysfunction Beth Rigby about what his looming second-term means for the UK.And with changes to university tuition fees in England for the first time in eight years - we dissect the crisis in higher education with President of the National Union of Students Amira Campbell and General Secretary of the University and College Union Jo Grady. Nish and Coco also dig into the mailbag to find out what you think. Plus - some essential listening - does Coco not understand what a mullet is?Guests:Beth RigbyAmira CampbellJo Grady Useful Links:Christmas Comedy in aid of Women and Children First ft. Nish Kumarhttps://www.leicestersquaretheatre.com/show/christmas-comedy-in-aid-of-women-children-first/ Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheuk


How is Trump already infecting UK politics? w/ Beth Rigby + the university crisis

It’s a dark, dark day for the world. Donald Trump - a convicted criminal no less - has been elected 47th US president in a shocking political resurrection. Nish and Coco are joined by the Spectator’s political editor Katy Balls to discuss just how ready the UK Government is for Trump’s comeback and Kemi Badenoch’s leadership win. Later, Bell Ribeiro-Addy, Labour MP and chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Afrikan Reparations, calls in to discuss her dismay at the US news and to Foreign Secretary David Lammy ruling out cash-based reparations for countries blighted by slavery.And with the Government announcing the first hike in tuition fees since 2017 - we want to hear from you. Are the increased fees or maintenance loans affecting you? Are you sick of paying off student loan repayments? How can we fix the crisis in higher education? Email us at psuk@reducedlistening.co.uk as we’ll be chewing this over with some special guests next week.  Guests:Katy BallsBell Ribeiro-Addy MP Audio Credits:BBCSky NewsGB News Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukInsta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheuk


Trump wins: where the hell do we go from here? w/ Katy Balls + Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP

Double, Double, toil and trouble…the Government’s first budget has been unveiled on the eve of Halloween, and Nish and Coco are peering into chancellor Rachel Reeve’s cauldron. It’s a spooky episode, so buckle up, we find out if the Halloween budget is the horror show it’s been predicted to be.A seance with economic and political journalist Grace Blakeley helps us break down the raft of tax rises, loosened borrowing restrictions, and investment in public services.But what about the skeletons in the closet? Principal policy advisor at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation Katie Schmuecker drops in to chat about reforms to benefits for sick and disabled people, as well as private renters on low incomes.And finally Torsten Bell, Labour MP and former head of the Resolution Foundation, reveals if he’s going to sleep easy or if he’s worried about any market monsters emerging overnight… Guests: Grace BlakeleyKatie SchmueckerTorsten Bell MP Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Halloween budget: trick or treat? w/ Torsten Bell MP, Grace Blakeley & Katie Schmuecker

The Government’s rallying cry to the nation to help fix the NHS via a public consultation has not disappointed. In what is fast becoming the National Health Service’s very own Boaty McBoatface moment, Nish and Coco dissect the wild and weird policy suggestions flooding the website.Then Jeremy Corbyn, former Labour Party leader and Independent MP for Islington North, joins to tell us how the left can make their voices heard in Parliament and whether a new leftwing political party could be on the horizon.Later, with the US elections looming, co-host of our sister show Pod Save the World Tommy Vietor calls in to discuss why the Labour party is under fire for sending hundreds of staffers to canvas for the Democrats and what the result next month might mean for US-UK relations.Finally, Nish and Coco discuss a protest from an Australian Senator who shouted directly into the ears of King Charles, which comes as the Government resists paying reparations - or even apologising for - slavery and the actions of the British Empire. Useful links:https://crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-the-world/ Guests: Jeremy Corbyn MPTommy Vietor Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


How f***ed are we if Trump wins? +  Is Jeremy Corbyn MP forming a new party?

With just two weeks to go until the Autumn budget, the Labour government is preparing to make some huge reforms. But just how ruthless is Keir Starmer willing to be in reshaping the UK? Coco and Nish dig into it with Anushka Asthana, ITV’s political editor and author of “Taken as Red: How Labour won big and the Tories crashed the party”.Later, in the wake of the Tories latest round of madness, Liberal Democrat MP Josh Babarinde calls in from parliament to discuss how the Government can be held to account in the absence of a sane opposition.And speaking of political ruthlessness, we find out why Labour are demanding a police investigation into the Monster Raving Loony Party’s role in unseating Labour MP Jonathan Ashworth in Leicester South. Useful links:Taken as Red: How Labour won big and the Tories crashed the party. Guests: Anushka Asthana Josh Babarinde MP  Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


How ruthless is Keir Starmer willing to be? w/ Anushka Asthana and Josh Babarinde MP

The Tory party have once again chosen violence against themselves, as Keir Starmer’s Labour party are languishing in the polls after 90-something days of a lack of action. Nish and Coco burst the bubble on the news that Starmer’s Chief of Staff has been replaced by his election guru, joined by political journalist Ian Dunt to find out just how big a deal this backroom reshuffle is for the machinations of government. Ian also unravels the ideology of centrism - explaining why it was a huge part of the Labour Party’s success at the general election and why it might not be enough to keep the electorate happy without some actual policy to back it up. Later, Labour MP Nadia Whittome calls in from Portcullis House to talk about why she’s still hopeful for what the new government can deliver, before the biggest WTF moment since Rishi Sunak walked out in the rain - the Tory Party eliminating centrist candidate James Cleverly from the leadership. Guests: Ian Dunt Nadia Whittome MP  Audio Credits: LBC Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


The Tories lose their minds (again) - can Starmer hold against the far right?

The new Labour government has promised bold action to fix Britain’s benefit system. Last week, Keir Starmer announced a crackdown on benefit fraud and said people on long-term sickness benefits should look for work. But is this the answer?To chew over the Government’s plans, Coco and Nish are joined by Caroline Selman, senior research fellow at the Public Law Project, and John Pring, the founder and editor of Disability News Service and author of “The Department: How a Violent Government Bureaucracy Killed Hundreds and Hid the Evidence”. With some help from our listeners, they tell us how broken the benefit system is and how we can fix it.Then, to mark the Conservative party conference, we have the return of the section we like to call WTF. Some absolute shockers from the Tory leadership hopefuls remind us why they are no longer in power.Useful Links: For advice on benefits https://www.advicenow.org.uk/guides/how-deal-universal-credit-overpaymentContacting your MPhttps://www.parliament.uk/get-involved/contact-an-mp-or-lord/contact-your-mp/Guests: John Pring https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com/https://www.plutobooks.com/9780745349893/the-department/Caroline Selman https://x.com/publiclawprojctVideo Credits: Times RadioSkyBBCDaily ExpressPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Is Britain’s benefits system broken? w/ Caroline Selman and John Pring

Exclusive INCOGNI Deal ➼ go to https://incogni.com/podsavetheuk to get 60% off your annual plan!Keir Starmer gave his first Labour Conference speech as Prime Minister this week - but his message of “national renewal” was slightly spoiled by a backdrop of poor polling, infighting and their never ending “garm drama”. Journalist Zoë Grünewald joins Nish and Coco on the couch to search for the “light at the end of the tunnel” promised by the new government.Later, Simon Kuper, Financial Times journalist and author of Good Chaps: How corrupt politicians broke our law and institutions - and what we can do about it, joins the show to  delve into the government’s first scandal-not-scandal. They discuss how donations have infected our politics and why there’s no such thing as a free box at the Arsenal game.Guests: Simon Kuper https://x.com/KuperSimonZoë GrünewaldAudio Credits: ITV NewsPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Can Starmer’s upbeat note drown out the donation scandal? w/ Zoë Grünewald and Simon Kuper

Exclusive INCOGNI Deal ➼ go to https://incogni.com/podsavetheuk to get 60% off your annual plan!Keir Starmer promised a Labour government would “turn the page” on scandal - but he’s already under fire after a late declaration of thousands of pounds of gifts. As the Tories clamour for an investigation, Nish and Coco take to the PSUK couch to weigh in on the row.Later, they’re joined by independent researcher on migration policy Zoe Gardner to discuss why Starmer is seeking immigration lessons from Italy’s prime minister Giorgia Meloni. Zoe tells us about Italy’s controversial migration deals with North African countries and Albania, as well as what a migration system with a degree of humanity might look like.Next we open the mailbag to hear your unpopular policy suggestions - ranging from taxes on second homes to a maximum wage cap.Useful Links: Tickets for Nish Kumar: “Nish, don’t kill my vibe” https://www.nishkumar.co.uk/Guests: Zoe Gardner https://www.tiktok.com/@zoejardiniereAudio credits:The TelegraphTimes RadioX / Ed MilibandPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Starmer’s Garm Drama + the Government looks right on immigration w/ Zoe Gardner

Exclusive INCOGNI Deal ➼ go to https://incogni.com/podsavetheuk to get 60% off your annual plan!The government has won a vote in the commons over its controversial winter fuel payments - but Keir Starmer knows he’s not winning over the public. Unpopular decisions are the theme of the day as Nish returns to join Coco on the PSUK couch. Later, our hosts are joined by former inmate turned podcaster and TV host David Navarro, alongside CEO of the Prison Reform Trust Pia Sinha to discuss the disastrous state of the UK’s prisons. It’s an eye opening chat - through David’s lived experience and Pia’s knowledge of the system we gain a better understanding of where our justice system is going wrong and how we can begin to fix it. Nish fights sleep as we’re brought up to speed with the Tory leadership latest, before firing up in disappointment at misguided comments on the Grenfell disaster from two former Prime Ministers. Coco lightens the mood with the unexpected love story between two of Westminster’s best known MPs.  Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Useful Links: David’s Channel 4 Documentary https://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-secrets-of-uk-prisons-untoldPrison Reform Trust https://prisonreformtrust.org.uk/Guests: Pia Sinha, CEO Prison Reform TrustDavid Navarro, Host, Delinquent Nation Audio credits:Sky NewsBBCContact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Inside out: How to fix the UK’s prison system + Labour embraces unpopularity

Parliament is back in session and so is Pod Save the UK! Coco is joined by Zoë Grünewald, filling in for Nish, to discuss Keir Starmer’s gloomy new lines trailing what’s shaping up to be a miserable Autumn budget. Free political point scoring around the Oasis/Ticketmaster fiasco probably isn’t going to be enough to offset the grim energy emanating from the Government’s plan to means test the Winter Fuel Allowance for pensioners, despite some glints of hope in other policy areas. Coco and Zoë also discuss Jeremy Corbyn’s new political alliance, restrictions on arms sales licences to Israel and Labour’s mooted outdoor smoking ban. Later, they’re joined by James Riding, Chief Reporter at Inside Housing, to discuss the final report from the Grenfell Inquiry, exploring the “Decades of failure” and “systematic dishonesty” behind the disaster. Finally, they check in on the Tory leadership race, where the five remaining candidates are struggling for recognition within the public eye. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuests: Zoë Grünewald, Political JournalistJames Riding, chief reporter at Inside HousingAudio credits:Sky NewsNumber 10 Downing Street


Time to nationalise Ticketmaster? “Cigarettes & Alcohol”, the Grenfell Inquiry concludes

In this special live episode from the Edinburgh Fringe, recorded on 07/08/24, Nish and Coco are joined by comedians Adam Hills and Kemah Bob to talk about how political comedy offers relief in dark times, while still holding power to account. The gang reflect on political flashpoints and what they learned from it, from dropping a spoonful of sugar to the unique lens that comedy can lend while reporting devastating events. Once again, Nish is confounded by Brat Summer. Later, in a special Q&amp;A session with our live audience, we resurrect Pod Shag the UK and hear about some of the things bringing hope to our listeners, with a special appearance from Nish’s mum. Guests: Adam Hills - Comedian Kemah Bob - ComedianPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Live! How comedy can bring hope in dark times - with Adam Hills and Kemah Bob

In this special live episode from the Edinburgh Fringe, Nish and Coco bring two special guests to talk about the racist riots tearing Britain apart. **CORRECTION** This episode incorrectly states that the Baha Men's "Who Let The Dogs Out" has a sexist subtext, when it is in fact a song criticising misogyny. We regret the error. Nish, Coco and Ahir reflect on their personal feelings and experiences of racism in the UK in the wake of the violence, while sharing some advice for anyone feeling disturbed. Later, Tom Ballard jumps on stage to share how the UK took some of the worst possible inspiration from his home country of Australia. The gang turn to the audience - while sharing advice for wearing sunscreen… And burrito-based magic.  Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests: Ahir Shah - Comedian Tom Ballard - Comedian  Useful Links: ahirshah.comtomballard.com.au


Live! Finding hope in the wake of Britain's racist riots - with Ahir Shah & Tom Ballard

It’s been a tough few weeks for new Chancellor Rachel Reeves. In a speech to the House of Commons on Monday, Reeves declared that despite going in to government with gloomy prospects, the financial inheritance was much worse than she had expected. Naturally, this didn’t go down particularly well with the now Shadow Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, as the two traded barbs whilst invoking the opinions of THE name in British economics - Paul Johnson. Nish and Coco sit down with the man himself, Paul, to talk about how deep the budgetary black hole goes and solutions for how the Government might tax their way out of it, whilst still meeting the difficult manifesto commitment of “no new taxes on working people”. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest;Paul Johnson, Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies. Useful links:Pod Save the UK, Live! https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-livePSUK YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PodSavetheUKAudio clips:Parliament.TVInstagram / James Cleveley


How Can We Fix The British Economy? With Paul Johnson From The IFS

Three weeks haven’t yet passed since the election, but Keir Starmer’s Government has faced its first rebellion. The response to seven Labour MPs breaking rank over the Government’s stance on the two child benefit cap was swift and fierce, leading to the whip being removed and anger inside and outside the party. Nish and Coco ask if Starmer has only stoked further division within the party. Clare Farrell drops in to discuss the landmark sentencing of five Just Stop Oil protesters and how the previous government’s draconian anti-protest legislation led to this moment. Later, chair of the NHS Federation Victor Adebowale joins Nish and Coco to discuss the National Audit Office’s recent findings into the state of NHS finances and what can be done to fix the service, while taking the pressure off of near-breaking point staff.  Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Clare Farrell, co-founder of Extinction RebellionLord Victor Adebowale, Chair of the NHS Confederation  Useful Links:Open Letter:https://defendourjuries.org/wtf/Just Stop Oil petition: https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/no-prison-for-protest/Pod Save the UK: live! https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-live Audio credits:BBC Radio 4 TodayDepartment of Health and Social Careparliamentlive.tv


Red Rebellion, Just Stop Locking Up Activists And How To Fix Our Broken NHS With Clare Farrell And Victor Adebowale

As parliamentarians were ironing their robes in preparation for the King’s Speech, Trump’s new running mate JD Vance shocked the UK with flippant remarks that have sent a shiver down the spine of the New Government. Nish and Coco are joined by Liz Bates to discuss Vance’s comments, the themes behind the surprise-free King’s Speech and two shock resignations - those of Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething and England manager Gareth Southgate. Later, Nish and Coco catch up with two young people with lived experience of our crumbling education system and check in with Janeen Hayat, Director of Collective Action at the Fair Education Alliance. Education is one of the new government’s top five priorities - where the few short-term wins to be had are balanced out by some prickly policy problems. Later, Liz returns to unveil an MP’s (not-so) shameful secret, the neverending Tory psychodrama and the reality TV show nobody was asking for. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests: Liz BatesJaneen HayatUseful Links: Find us on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@podsavetheukBuy Tickets to see Pod Save the UK live - https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-liveAudio Credits: Parliament.TVITV Good Morning BritainThe Guardian


The Kings Speech, Knives Out for Vaughan Gething and An Education on Schools Policy with Liz Bates

It’s week one in government and Labour have hit the ground running. We’ve got a new cabinet and big moves on planning reform and international relations are underway. But what about the opposition? Nish and Coco check in with Substack superstar Sam Freedman to uncover some of the challenges the new government faces over the course of the parliament and hear who might lead a new-look Conservative Party. Later, Kwajo Tweneboa and Toby Lloyd drop in to chew over one of the prickliest issues the UK needs to deal with - housing. From social housing, to affordability, to no-fault evictions, we cover off the biggest challenges the government faces. Finally, things get weird when Coco declares a “Red Ed Summer” as TikTokers thirst over the new energy secretary. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Sam Freedman, political analystKwajo Tweneboa, housing campaignerToby Lloyd, housing consultant Useful links:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-live Audio clips:parliamentlive.tvThe Telegraph


Are Labour the party to finally fix housing? w/ Kwajo Tweneboa, Toby Lloyd and Sam Freedman

It’s official. The election results are in and we are in the era of a Labour government. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stepped up the 10 Downing Street - but one of the key questions for Nish and Coco is will things concretely improve under his leadership? What can we hope for in this new era?The results of this election has shown massive changes in all directions and with all the parties. Joining Nish and Coco to analyse all the seismic shifts is political journalist, Zoe Grünewald. She discusses whether the Conservatives and the SNP are on the brink of collapse, and the implications of Reform getting seats in parliament.We also hear from newly elected Labour MP for Swansea West, Torsten Bell, and Femi Oluwole looks at the early stats around tactical voting.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Zoe Grünewald, political journalistTorsten Bell, Labour MP for Swansea WestFemi Oluwole, journalist and campaigner Useful links:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-live Audio clips:Channel 4Sky NewsBBCFemi OluwoleLBC


Labour Landslide - will things get better? With Torsten Bell MP and Femi Oluwole

Counting down the last five days until the election results come flooding in, the Conservative Party is still blowing themselves apart from the inside. Why has the Tory campaign been such a clusterfuck and should we care if they implode? Would a Labour supermajority be good or bad for democracy as a whole?To discuss these points, Nish and Coco are joined by Rory Stewart - hearing what he thinks on both the future of the Conservative party, and the future of British democracy. Now known for hosting the “The Rest is Politics” podcast with former Labour spin-doctor Alastair Campbell, Rory explains why he might return to politics - even going for the top job. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Rory Stewart Useful links:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-livehttps://www.penguin.co.uk/books/442034/politics-on-the-edge-by-stewart-rory/9781529922868


Would a Labour supermajority really be bad for democracy? Rory Stewart on why opposition is vital

With just one week to go until the election, Rishi Sunak’s chances of avoiding a landslide defeat might have just got slimmer - all thanks to “gamble-gate”. Nish and Coco are joined by political correspondent Liz Bates to discuss the betting scandal plaguing the government. Sunak vowed to lead the world in “standards of decency” but has been very slow to act. Might this mean a complete wipeout for them?But that’s not all the scandals this week. Education secretary Gillian Keegan has repeatedly used a claim about children being taught there are “72 genders” to back up government plans to ban schools from talking about gender identity. Nish, Coco and Liz investigate her so-called sources. And from politicians playing minecraft to the Reform UK Party singing the Spice Girls, the WTF moments are multiplying. Nish, Coco and Liz dissect their favourites from the week. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Liz Bates, Political Correspondent, Sky News Useful links:https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/pod-save-the-uk-live Audio clips:BBC ITVReform UKTrophyTime


Will “gamblegate” scandal obliterate the Tories Forever? Plus last few days of the election with Liz Bates

The major parties have failed to pledge to make the radical changes needed to save our planet from climate catastrophe - but people power may well save us yet. Nish and Coco are joined by conservationist Chris Packham to find out what more our politicians need to do and how citizens can get involved. Chris also questions the wisdom of Taylor Swift’s private jet usage and brings a suggestion of how she could help create change. Later, Adrienne Buller drops by to explore GB Energy - Labour’s signature manifesto pledge that they’ve claimed to be the most radical climate policy ever. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Chris Packham - ConservationistAdrienne Buller - Author  Useful links:The Break Down https://www.break-down.org/post/welcome-to-the-break-downRestore Nature Nowhttps://www.restorenaturenow.com/


Chris Packham Vs Taylor Swift: Will People or Politics Save Our Planet?

It’s been a horrendous campaign for the Conservatives so far, careening from disaster to catastrophe, but the Tories don't have the exclusive on political drama. This week Nish and Coco focus on the action in the devolved nations, with a particular focus on Wales and Northern Ireland. First, we check in with Welsh Journalist Will Hayward to learn about the recent vote of no confidence in First Minister Vaughan Gething and Labour’s manifesto pledge to tune up the current devolution agreements. Then, Coco chats to Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, to learn more about Plaid’s ambitions for Wales and their plans to turn up the heat on Labour. Later, we check in to Northern Ireland, speaking to journalist Amanda Ferguson about the stakes of the next election and whether allegations about former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson will have any bearing on the election. Finally, the gang break out some of Coco’s recently rebranded charming and quizzical moments. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader of Plaid Cymru Will Hayward, Welsh Affairs Editor at Wales OnlineAmanda Ferguson, freelance journalist Audio credits:Sky NewsBlue Sky.mp3 by Sergmusic -- https://freesound.org/s/639933/ -- License: Creative Commons 0TikTok/ Suella Braverman  Useful links:Jo Stevens interview with S4C https://x.com/NewyddionS4C/status/1802786241852707250Constituencies and candidates: Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr: https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.montgomeryshire-and-glyndwr.2024-07-04/montgomeryshire-and-glyndwr/Ynys Mon:https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.ynys-mon.2024-07-04/ynys-mon/Dudley:https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.dudley.2024-07-04/dudley/Fareham: https://whocanivotefor.co.uk/elections/parl.fareham-and-waterlooville.2024-07-04/fareham-and-waterlooville/


Who gets the power? Devolution and the General Election.

Following a week of political manifestoes dropping from UK parties - Nish &amp; Coco take a deep-dive investigation to see how they hold up against one another. With a focus on manifestoes that have left-wing approaches - they discuss what policies are the most realistic and which hold up the best under scrutiny.  Joined by political journalist Zoe Grünewald, Nish &amp; Coco look closely at welfare policies, the NHS, taxes and social care.Special guests Rebekah Pierre (author and social worker) and Helen Barnard (of the Trussell Trust) send the hosts their thoughts on which policies have the most potential for hope. And there’s a return of WTF moments featuring an iconic UK hit song and Starmer’s comeback to a surprise protest.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Zoe Grünewald, political journalist Audio Clips:BBCInstitute for Fiscal StudiesTimes RadioSky NewsDawn Butler/Elson Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!


Manifesto deep-dive: Is Labour’s at all progressive?

The polls are indicating a landslide victory for Labour come the election on July 4th. But that hasn’t stopped the calls - from both the left and the right - for citizens to vote tactically. But what does that really mean in Britain’s broken electoral system?Joining Nish and Coco on the PSUK sofa is Femi Oluwole, activist and campaigner, and Joe Twyman, a seasoned pollster covering his 9th election. Together they discuss whether this is an election for people to vote with their heart or if being “strategic” is more important and whether our new parliament has any hope of delivering long overdue reform to our electoral system.We also hear from Jessica Garland from the Electoral Reform Society.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Femi Oluwole, YouTube Campaigner, Tactical Voting activistJoe Twyman, Co-founder and director of Deltapoll Audio Clips:Sky NewsBBCITVChannel 5PoliticsJoe Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!https://www.gov.uk/registertovotehttps://www.getvoting.orghttps://tactical.votehttps://stopthetories.vote/https://www.sprintforpr.uk/


How to make your vote count: is Tactical Voting a necessary evil? With Femi Oluwole

The UK’s sorry state of affairs when it comes to water and railways is both a massive problem and an opportunity for the incoming government. Water companies are teetering on the brink of collapse and it feels inevitable that they will soon fall back in to public ownership. But how can we pay for renationalised services? Cat Hobbs from We Own It talks to Nish and Coco about the history of privatisation and the opportunities that renationalised services present to the UK. And economist and activist Gary Stevenson explores how the public can rewrite the narrative on taxation - starting with a 1% tax on people with wealth of over £10,000,000. But why stop there? Coco and Nish ask about other potential boons to the state budget. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Cat Hobbs, Director of We Own ItGary Stevenson, the Activist and Economist behind Gary’s Economics Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!https://weownit.org.uk/https://patrioticmillionaires.uk/


Why is it so hard to tax the rich? Would it fix our economy? With Gary Stevenson

In week two of the campaigns for the upcoming General Election - the fight for the centre vote has become a focal point. But the crucial question remains - what will this do for the future of politics in the UK? Are we at risk of losing diversity across parties? And as Keir Starmer appears to be purging the left-wing factions of the Labour Party, Nish and Coco speak to former Labour leader and now independent candidate Jeremy Corbyn on whether he’s hopeful for a potential Labour government and what advice he has for Keir Starmer.Nish and Coco also speak to Mhairi Black about the challenges facing the SNP when trying to capture the electorate. They also discuss whether we are at risk of losing the kind of representation that the Left and younger voters need to bring about hope and change in society.There’s also a rundown of the first Sunak vs Starmer TV debate and a return of the best WTF moments from the week’s political campaigns.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Jeremy Corbyn, Independent Candidate for Islington NorthMhairi Black, former SNP Deputy Leader and MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South Audio credits:BBC ITVLabour PartySky News Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!


Jeremy Corbyn & Mhairi Black: Left Culled, Centre Cracked and Right Reformed?

It’s week one of the campaign and after a comical series of false starts, Rishi Sunak and the Tories have fired the first shots in a campaign of generational warfare. Nish and Coco are joined by political correspondent Liz Bates to find out if there are votes to be won in these wedge politics. Later, they speak to Christine Jardine from the Liberal Democrats about their differences with Labour as well as the electoral battleground that is Scotland. And, as the campaign heats up - the WTF moments are multiplying. Nish, Coco and Liz dissect their favourites from the week.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Liz Bates, Sky NewsChristine Jardine, Scottish Liberal Democrat MP Audio credits:BBC Sky NewsShrek - Paramount pictures Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!


Generational Warfare: Has Rishi Sunak’s electoral gambit misfired?

Nish and Coco are joined by Abigail Thorn (actress, writer and host of PhilosophyTube) and Freddy McConnell (writer and journalist) to examine the issues facing the trans and non-binary community in the UK today. In recent news, the current Tory government has proposed new guidelines for education in schools across England. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said that gender identity should not be taught in schools to students of any age. Abigail and Freddy respond to these news headlines and also discuss The Cass review, a proposed new approach from the Labour Party around the Gender Recognition Act,  and which individuals need highlighting for their work on trans rights in the UK. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media.Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuests:Abigail Thorn, Freddy McConnell, journalist Audio credits:ITVBBC Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!https://transsafety.network/Transactual Briefing on the Cass Review - https://transactual.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/TransActual-Briefing-on-Cass-Review.pdf


What do the Trans & Non-binary community need most right now?

Nish and Coco bring you a hot off-the-press special look at the announcement of a UK general election.On Wednesday 22nd May - Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the next general election will be on Thursday 4th July 2024. It appeared to be a sudden decision that surprised even his own Conservative MPs. But this announcement brings a whole host of questions with it. What key issues will this election be fought on? Is the timing helpful to any party in particular? How will Sunak fare under the microscope? To answer those and many more - friend of the show Liz Bates makes an eager return. Alongside Nish and Coco - Liz discusses what drove Sunak to this announcement and whether Keir Starmer got something of a headstart on his campaign.There’s also discussion of how other parties might fare in this race from Lib Dems to the SNPs. And co-leader of the Green Party Adrian Ramsay gives his point of view.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Liz Bates, Sky NewsAdrian Ramsay, Co-leader, Green PartyAudio credits:BBCSky News Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!


Are these the last six weeks of Rishi Sunak and the Tories?

The UK is officially out of recession - Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt have been banging the drum of the 0.6% GDP growth in the Jan-March quarter, but are things actually getting better?George Monbiot drops into the studio to demystify Neoliberalism - the invisible economic doctrine that has influenced UK politics and policy since the Thatcher years. George also brings some fresh ideas for how citizens can move away from being consumers and recapture our democracy. Finally, Nish and Coco eviscerate Esther McVey’s campaign to ban that most dreadful example of civil service impropriety - the rainbow lanyard. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:George Monbiot, activist and writer Audio credits:BBC LBC The Guardian  Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!The Invisible Doctrine: The Secret History of Neoliberalism (&amp; How It Came to Control Your Life) by George Monbiot and Peter HutchisonThe Guardian - Latest GDP figures offer some better news – but boom-boom Britain it ain’t


The economy is growing, so why are we feeling poorer?

“A hung Parliament” - it’s not quite admitting defeat, but the new media lines from Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party suggest that even the Government knows its days are numbered. Nish and Coco unpack Sunak’s shock admission and some of the highlights from the local elections. Comedian, actor and activist (and old colleague of Nish) Aisling Bea drops in to talk about campaigning against food insecurity. The “Essentials Guarantee” campaign championed by the Trussell Trust asks that political parties prioritise all citizens having basic essentials as part of their election manifestos.Aisling also talks about the fight for abortion rights in her homeland of Ireland, while Coco reminds us that the abortion laws in England, Scotland and Wales are incredibly archaic. Abortion buffer zones, 150m no-protest areas around clinics have just hit their one-year anniversary of receiving royal ascent for England &amp; Wales, however, the Home Office has yet to roll out the change to the law - leaving protestors free to approach women outside. Finally, the gang mix together a metaphorical soufflé of villains, stirring in a healthy dose of uncapped banker bonuses, adding a dash of Susan Hall, and a pinch of the Labour Party’s surprise new MP. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Aisling Bea Audio credits:BBCThe Guardian GB News Useful links:Come to see Pod Save the UK live at Edinburgh Fringe!Essentials Guarantee Campaign - Trussell TrustCould there really be a hung parliament at the next UK general election? - The Guardian Anti-abortion activists ramping up protests outside clinics after failure to introduce buffer zones - The Independent Goldman Sachs’s UK gender pay gap widest in six years - Financial Times On abortion culture wars, Britain takes a different path - PoliticoWhat a sad little life Jane  - Come Dine With Me


Abortion rights & ending hunger with Aisling Bea

While the results from elections across England &amp; Wales are still rolling in - the signs so far are pointing to a disastrous outcome for the Conservative party. So Nish &amp; Coco have jumped on for this special bonus episode to pop the champagne - asking exactly what it means ahead of the General Election - whenever that will eventually be called! Liz Bates from Sky News joins Nish and Coco to explain why the historic result of the byelection in Blackpool is so seismic. They also discuss whether results for Reform UK will scare the Tories into more extreme right-wing rhetoric, whether Boris Johnson forgetting his ID was a publicity stunt and whether Keir Starmer is not a good leader, but a lucky one.We also throw ahead to the general election - if there was a dreaded hung parliament - would that work at all? And how might the Tories be trying to claw their way back into favour before they finally allow the UK to have a general election? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Liz Bates, Sky News Audio credits:BBC NewcastBBC NewsSky News


Are the Local Election results the beginning of total Tory annihilation?

The Westminster rumour mill went into overdrive last weekend peddling an ultimately incorrect rumour that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was due to call a summer election. With suggestions that this rumour was started by the Labour Party, Nish and Coco ask whether progressives might be starting to control the narrative.And might that change in power balance towards the Left also be coming to the fore in Scotland? Following the shock resignation of First Minister and SNP Leader Humza Yousaf, Politico’s reporter Andrew McDonald unpacks how the Green Party may have greater influence in Scottish politics moving forward.And what are the radical solutions we need to address the crisis in Britain’s care system for children? The collaborators of the new book Free Loaves on Friday poet Lemn Sissay and journalist Rebekah Pierre explain why hearing directly from care leavers is vital for addressing problems across the system.This week - we present the PSUK hero no one asked for and the villain you never saw coming. Move aside Idris Elba - Nish Kumar is coming for your spotlight…Finally - make sure to look out for a bonus edition of Pod Save the UK this week where we bring you analysis from the results of the elections across England and Wales with Liz Bates.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Andrew McDonald, PoliticoRebekah Pierre, Journalist and Social WorkerLemn Sissay, Poet and Activist Audio credit:Sky News Useful links:https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/voter-idhttps://unbound.com/books/free-loaves-on-fridays


Humza Yousaf's Shock Resignation: Are the Greens Seizing Power in Scotland?

Rishi Sunak finally ‘got Rwanda done’ after a long and dramatic night as his Safety of Rwanda Bill ping-ponged between the Common and the Lords. Our guest, the Green MP Caroline Lucas, tells Coco what it was like to be in Westminster that night and criticises Rishi Sunak for holding a drinks party while the Bill - which she describes as “a piece of performative cruelty” - was still being debated in the Lords. She also discusses her new book about why the left needs to speak up for ‘Englishness’, and explains why she’s training to become a death doula.Nish and Coco provide an indispensable guide to next week’s local elections, talking about why they’re important and analysing what they might mean for Tory and Labour prospects at a general election. They also discuss whether the new rules on voter ID are an attempt by the Conservative Party to suppress the vote.For our hero and villain of the week, Nish is appalled by Rishi Sunak’s attack on the sick and disabled, while Coco has been enjoying The Menstrual Cramps! Plus what would happen if Nish and Rishi Sunak met at notorious Berlin club Berghain?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:Caroline Lucas, Green MP for Brighton PavillionAudio credits:parliamentlive.tvSky News Useful links:https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/voter-idhttps://www.bethknight.com/https://crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-america/


Nish dismantles Sunak's attack on disabled people and Coco meets Caroline Lucas

On a busy week of news as MPs return to Parliament, Nish and Coco are joined by the Labour MP Jess Phillips. She gives her take on the investigation into Angela Rayner’s tax affairs, and reveals the toll it’s taking on her party’s deputy leader. A discussion on Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel leads Jess to reveal her family links to Iran, and there’s some rare praise for Rishi Sunak for his anti-smoking legislation. Jess also says Diane Abbott should get the whip back, despite the two Labour colleagues having a somewhat frosty relationship. Villain of the week is Liz Truss for her shameless book tour, although Jess makes a play for her to be hero, saying she’s “a gift” for Labour and “should be on the tele more”. There’s also praise for Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham, for putting a sexist photographer in his place. Plus Nish and Coco have some songwriting tips for Megan Thee Stallion.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07494 933 444 (UK) or + 44 7494 933 444 (internationally)Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Jess Phillips, Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley Audio credits:parliamentlive.tvBBC NewsFox NewsLBCodeiotedlasso/X


Jess Phillips on Angela Rayner tax story: scandal or smear?

Coco is back from holiday and the first order of business is for Nish to explain the Westminster “honeypot” scandal, which has seen the vice-chairman of the 1922 committee resign. But beyond a salacious story about MPs texting, what are the broader security issues this raises? Nish and Coco also take issue with Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting attacking “middle-class lefties” in a tabloid newspaper.Special guest Shami Chakrabarti joins Nish and Coco to discuss human rights - what they are, why we need them, and how we need to define them in a future that’s powered by technology and AI. The Labour peer also gives her verdict on Keir Starmer’s leadership, Diane Abbott’s suspension, and responds to listener comments about the importance of voting. Plus she takes an unexpected detour into film criticism.Nish laments the fall of a heroic shoe, and Coco aims a government department for the way it treats carers in her villain of the week.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Baroness Shami Charkrabarti, human rights lawyer and author of Human Rights: The Case for the Defence’.  Audio credits:Dr Luke Evans MPSky NewsElent Finance/InstagramLBC Useful links:https://www.libertyhumanrights.org.uk/


Scandal and cyber security in Westminster

With the Government’s controversial Rwanda Bill currently stuck between the Commons and the Lords, this timely special episode focuses on the UK’s asylum policy. Nish takes up an invitation to speak about the issue at the House of Lords. The event has been organised by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Refugees, in conjunction with the makers of a new film called Io Capitano - which follows the perilous migration journey of two young boys travelling from Senegal to Europe in search of a better life. Nish joins Labour peer Lord Dubs, the co-chair of the APPG on Refugees, in his office afterwards to hear how he and his colleagues are “digging their heels in” to try and amend the Rwanda Bill. Lord Dubs tells Nish what he learnt from a recent trip to Calais to meet asylum seekers first-hand. They also discuss what a more humane asylum system might look like and whether the next Labour government can deliver it. Back in the studio, Nish and Coco discuss the extent to which arts and culture can have the power to bring about change.With special thanks to Altitude Films and Think-Film Impact Production. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Lord Dubs, Labour peer and co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Refugees Useful link:Io Capitano trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6fLvLN2EqM


Fighting the Rwanda Bill + Mr Kumar goes to Westminster

As Westminster goes on its Easter holidays, Nish and Coco reflect on a busy end of term that saw a couple of ministerial resignations and a diplomatic row with China. Nish asks if Lord Cameron’s post No.10 activities leave him compromised in dealing with China as Foreign Minister. Coco also raises the plight of the WASPI women, who lost out due to the change in pension age - will they ever see any compensation?Special guest George the Poet joins Nish and Coco for a fascinating conversation that takes in disillusionment with Westminster politics and the pitfalls of getting into political arguments over social media. Plus he reveals which famous comedian gave him his stage name.Nish takes aim at a villainous Tory campaign ad, while Coco celebrates the life of Richard Taylor, father of Damilola. Also, find out why Alan Titchmarsh’s trousers have been censored in North Korea! Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:George the Poet, spoken word artist and author of Track Record: Me, Music, and the War on Blackness Audio credits:BBC NewsThe Conservative Party Useful links:https://www.georgethepoet.com/


A China crisis, a dodgy attack ad, and Titchmarsh’s trousers

This week Nish and Coco ask if our politics is on sale to those with the deepest pockets? The Conservative Party would love us all to move on from the row around the £15 million donation from Frank Hester, but it’s a story that highlights the often murky world of political funding. Nish and Coco talk to investigative journalist Peter Geoghagen about what the rules are, what donors get for their money, and whether there’s a better way to do it.Dodgy donations have also cast a bit of a cloud over a momentous week in Welsh politics, which saw the appointment of Vaughan Gething as the first black leader of a European country. Journalist Will Hayward explains why it hasn’t been an easy ride for him so far and why he’s got a rocky road ahead. Plus in other news, MP’s and Lords play ‘ping pong’ with the Government’s Rwanda Bill, and there’s a new name in the Tory leadership frame.Competent and popular politician spotted at Downing Street shock: Nish and Coco discuss President Obama’ popping in for a cup of tea with Rishi Sunak. Plus a new sighting of Princess Kate raises more questions about the royal PR machine. In this week’s hero and villain, find out why a Glasgow record shop has amused Nish and why a Lord has annoyed Coco.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Will Hayward, Welsh affairs editor at WalesOnlinePeter Geoghagen, investigative journalist and author of the Democracy for Sale Substack Audio credits:ITV NewsITV News West Country  Useful links:https://crooked.com/podcast-series/world-corrupt/https://democracyforsale.substack.com/https://www.righttoroam.org.uk/


Democracy for sale, Europe’s first black leader + tea with Obama

Another shocker of a week for the Conservatives which saw their biggest donor caught up in a race row, and their former Deputy Chairman defect to Reform UK. Beth Rigby, Political Editor at Sky News, tells Nish and Coco that the Tories don’t want to give back the £10 million they received from Frank Hester last year, despite the racist language he’s alleged to have used about the MP Diane Abbott. Beth also reveals what happened at the surprisingly tetchy press conference held by Reform to unveil Lee Anderson as their party’s first ever MP in the Commons.Beth tells Nish and Coco why she’s obsessed with THAT Royal Mother’s Day picture, they discuss Princess Catherine’s questionable photoshop skills, conspiracy theories and what it all means for the Royal Family. Nish’s hero of the week is film director Jonathan Glazer, while Coco isn’t happy with Times columnist Matthew Parris. Plus hear about Beth’s Arsenal bantz with Keir Starmer, Coco’s visit to the dentist…and more badger chat!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Beth Rigby, Political Editor, Presenter and Podcaster, Sky News Audio credits:Sky NewsSBS/7 Network/Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Useful links:https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/electoral-dysfunction/id1613562765https://www.tortoisemedia.com/listen/who-trolled-amber/


Tory donor racism row, plus the Princess and the pic

Did the Chancellor’s much anticipated pre-election budget fall flat? Nish and Coco pick over the details and wonder why our public services are being sacrificed for the sake of tax cuts. There’s reaction from Westminster from political journalist Kiran Stacey, who says that there are signs of the budget unravelling already. Rachelle Earwaker from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation says it does nothing for the poorest in society, calling it a budget for “big earners and big owners”.Find out how a sleepy corner of Devon could be about to shake up our political system. Fed up of a first past the post system that’s delivered a Tory MP for the last 99 years, voters in Totnes are organising their own series of primaries to pick a progressive candidate to oust their MP Anthony Mangnall. Could it catch on in other places too?There’s an International Women’s Day theme to this week’s hero and villain…find out what Lucy Moore and the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council have done to deserve their accolades. Meanwhile Coco’s got a bone to pick with King Harold of 1066 fame, plus there are tales of micro-pigs, badgers and naughtiness at Disneyland.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuests:Kiran Stacey, political correspondent at The GuardianRachelle Earwaker, senior economist at The Joseph Rowntree FoundationAudio credits:parliamentlive.tvX / @SDevonPrimaryX / @lucyajmmooreUseful links:https://www.jrf.org.uk/https://crooked.com/podcast-series/pod-save-america/


Jeremy Hunt’s election budget for big earners and big owners

With a huge lead in the polls, all the signs point to Keir Starmer moving into Downing Street by the end of the year, so how well do we know the man who would be PM? Guest co-presenter Liz Bates attempts to get behind the rather dull public image, by interrogating Tom Baldwin, who spent hours talking to Starmer for his new authoritative biography of the Labour leader. The conversation takes an emotional turn when Liz and Tom discuss Starmer’s difficult relationship with his dad; how he couldn’t hug him on his deathbed, and then later found a hidden scrapbook that showed how proud of his son he really was. They also talk about what makes Starmer tick politically - is there such a thing as Starmerism? - as well as his love of football and music…and Tom reveals what Starmer thinks of the book!Nish joins Liz from Crooked HQ in LA to discuss the fallout from Lee Anderson’s expulsion from the party, and whether the Tories have an islamophobia problem. They also discuss the rogues gallery of candidates competing to win the Rochdale by-election, and Liz reveals what it’s like to get up close and personal on the campaign trail, with the bookies favourite George Galloway.Plus find out why Nish gave one very lucky New York cab driver a massive tip, and why he loves smelly books!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:Tom Baldwin, author of Keir Starmer: The Biography   Audio credit:GB NewsUseful link:https://crooked.com/podcast-series/lovett-or-leave-it/


The man who would be PM: who is the real Keir Starmer?

Nish and guest co-presenter Liz Bates set the scene on what went on to become a chaotic night  in the Commons, that put speaker Lindsay Hoyle’s job at risk. They call out the “pathetic and petty” political game playing that sought to use the suffering of people in Gaza to embarrass the  Labour Party. There are also harsh words for Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch for using the Commons to settle scores in her row with the former Post Office chairman Henry Staunton.Former Pop Idol winner Will Young reveals his life-long interest in politics, and tells us what it was like to see his petition on ending medical testing on dogs, debated at Westminster. For his next foray into politics, Will says he’s planning to go to Somerset to troll Jacob Rees-Mogg, and says he’s even thinking about becoming an MP himself.In heroes and villains, Liz takes inspiration from Samatha Morton, while Nish defends Indian cuisine. Plus find out why Nish is channelling Carrie Bradshaw!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:Will Young: singer, actor and writer Audio credits:Sky Newsparliamentlive.tvThames Television / Freemantle MediaBAFTA Useful links:https://crooked.com/podcast-series/keep-it/https://www.careleaveroffer.co.uk/


Will Young: popstar to politician? Plus Westminster ceasefire row

A week that was supposed to bring more woe for Rishi Sunak has turned into arguably the biggest test of Keir Starmer’s leadership. Labour has had to suspend two of its parliamentary candidates for making comments about Israel. For Starmer, who’s staked his reputation on ridding Labour of anti-semitism, it’s been hugely embarrassing. Nish and Coco reflect on the farcical situation in Rochdale, where Azhar Ali will appear as a Labour candidate on the by-election ballot in a couple of weeks, despite the party having removed its support for him. With the Horizon Post Office scandal having put the use of non-disclosure agreements back in the spotlight, we hear from a woman who has made it her mission to stop NDAs being used to silence victims. Zelda Perkins, a former assistant to Harvey Weinstein, tells Nish and Coco about the traumatic experience of signing her NDA, which she likens to “legal waterboarding”, and why she chose to break it to help expose the film producer’s crimes. On an optimistic note, she reveals how politicians from across the political divide are helping her to achieve change.Wrexham FC owners Ryan Renolds and Rob McElhenney feature in heroes and villains, as do three councillors from Warwickshire County Council. Plus find out why Nish has ditched Coco on Valentine’s Day, and why they want your Jason Statham inspired film art. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Zelda Perkins, co-founder of Can’t Buy My Silence Audio credits:Sky Newsparliamentlive.tv‘She Said’, Annapurna Pictures, Plan B Entertainment and Universal PicturesWarwickshire County CouncilUseful links:https://www.cantbuymysilence.com/https://protect-advice.org.uk/https://www.wbuk.org/


Rochdale row tests Starmer’s leadership, plus the woman who helped take down Weinstein

Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf joins Nish and Coco to reflect on the highs and lows of his first year as leader. He takes us back to the fateful Valentine’s night phone call with Nicola Sturgeon that changed his life, and tells us how he felt watching his former mentor shed a tear at the Covid Inquiry last week.The First Minister talks about the helplessness he felt when his family members were trapped in Gaza, and reveals his fears for his brother-in-law, a surgeon who remains in Khan Younis. He tells how Keir Starmer called to offer his support, in stark contrast to Rishi Sunak and his then Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.Their wide-ranging conversation also takes in King Charles’ shock cancer news, independence and Brexit, and the challenge the SNP faces at the next general election. Plus there’s Celtic FC, samosas and learn why his first ever job gave him a huge bicep! This week’s hero and villain can be found on our social media channels.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Humza Yousaf, First Minister of Scotland, and leader of the Scottish National Party Audio credits:UK Covid-19 InquiryBBC News


Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf: Sunak, Starmer and samosas

After nearly two years without a functioning Government, are the people of Northern Ireland finally about to see the power-sharing executive return to Stormont? Nish and Coco reflect on a dramatic week with journalist Amanda Ferguson.The Labour MP Nadia Whittome talks of her frustration at her party’s stance on calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, but says Labour’s position is now evolving. She insists the party is still a broad church but admits it is a problem that there are no MPs from the left in Keir Starmer’s shadow cabinet. She also tells Nish and Coco why she donates part of her MP salary to worthy causes - in stark contrast to the Tory MP who resigned from his ministerial role because it didn’t pay enough! Coco celebrates the drag artist Crystal for taking down a high-profile right-wing troll, while Nish is left exasperated by the Tory ‘evil plotters’ WhatsApp group. Plus we find out why Coco wants a beard, and relive Nish’s childhood barbershop trauma. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Nadia Whittome, Labour MP for Nottingham EastAmanda Ferguson, freelance journalist  Audio credits:BBCSky NewsX/MANPalestine Action


The MP who gives away part of her salary, hope for Northern Ireland and Nish Kumar takes on the evil plotters

1 in 5 local councils in England is in danger of going bankrupt within the next two years - it’s a growing crisis that Westminster has done its best to ignore. With their budgets continually slashed, council leaders are faced with sometimes impossible choices about which services can be funded and which have to be axed. Nish and Coco discuss the crisis with a council leader, Joe Harris, and a ‘policy wonk’ Zoe Billingham. As they chat it emerges that Michael Gove has committed an extra £500 million into the pot for next year. Our guests verdict? It won’t touch the sides.Meanwhile in Westminster, is it a rebellion if it’s only one person rebelling? Plus introducing your new favourite Conservative group…the Popular Conservatives or PopCons! Nish is obviously delighted to hear about another SFG (or stupid fucking group), especially as this one has a certain Liz Truss attached to it.Also find out what Ministers Lucy Frazer and Hugh Merriman did to jointly take the villain of the week crown, while the hero of the week goes to a judge who defended the honour of the poppadom. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Joe Harris, vice chair of the Local Government Association, and the Lib Dem leader of Cotswold District CouncilZoë Billingham, the director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) North think tank Audio credits:Sky NewsBBC News / Laura Kuenssberg


Why are our councils going bust?

It’s groundhog day at Westminster as Rishi Sunak’s Safety of Rwanda Bill returns to the Commons - will all the talk of rebellion come to anything this time? Nish and Coco discuss whether an opinion poll in the Telegraph was used to try to influence the debate and encourage the rebels. Plus they ask how it is that the UK has granted asylum to Rwandans AFTER signing a deal that deems the country safe.Labour MP Clive Lewis and journalist Laura Trevelyan went on a fascinating journey together, after discovering a shared connection on the island of Grenada….where his ancestors were enslaved and hers were slave owners. They discuss whether countries involved in the slave trade should pay reparations…and what goes into the traditional Grenadian meal of Oil Down.Find out why Manchester United fan Nish is full of praise for Liverpool fans, and what Avanti West Coast Trains have done to annoy Coco. Plus there’s some disagreement over whether we should be helping lonely Pod Save the Uk fans find love…Pod Shag the Uk anyone? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Laura Trevelyan, campaigner and journalistClive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South Audio credits:Heirs of Enslavement, PersephonicaSky NewsThe Traitors US, Peacock Useful links:https://www.persephonica.com/shows/heirs-of-enslavement


Rwanda, Reparations and Romance

Why did it take a TV drama to wake politicians up to what’s been described as the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British legal history? More than 700 sub-postmasters were convicted of theft, due to accounting discrepancies caused by the Post Office’s faulty computer system. ITV’s Mr Bates vs The Post Office caused public outrage and has forced the Government into taking unprecedented action. James Harding, former BBC director of News and Current Affairs, joins Nish and Coco to discuss what lessons journalism can learn from the saga.With the UK, like much of Western Europe, recording historically low birthrates, Nish and Coco wonder why it only seems to be politicians on the right who ever engage with it as an issue. Is it a simple matter of economics, or maybe it’s just 14 years of Conservative Government that’s killed the mood!Plus Keir Starmer’s glitter-bomber makes a surprise appearance, we find out Coco’s unusual choice of pool nickname, and why the PM is ‘dancing on the ceiling’.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:James Harding, co-founder and editor at Tortoise Media Audio credits:parliamentlive.tvITV Studio / Little GemITV/Good Morning BritainSky News


The Horizon Post Office scandal and Lionel Rishi

Comedians Andy Zaltzman and Catherine Bohart return to help Nish and Coco try to predict what politics has in store for us in 2024. There’s much debate about the possible date of the next general election…with arguments made for both November 5th and December 25th! The panel also considers whether the electorate will warm to Keir Starmer. Plus there’s also the prospect of another Trump presidency to terrify us all.Andy and Catherine also help Nish and Coco field listeners' questions, with discussions ranging from whether our electoral system is fit for purpose, to who’d win in a fight between Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage. But the key question is: would anyone kiss a Tory?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Andy Zaltzman, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, and The Bugle podcastCatherine Bohart, comedian and co-presenter of Trusty Hogs podcast Useful links:https://www.catherinebohart.com/livehttps://www.thebuglepodcast.com/live


Nish and Coco’s predictions for 2024, plus would you kiss a Tory?

Comedians Andy Zaltzman and Catherine Bohart take up Nish and Coco’s challenge, to find the laughs in another chaotic year in British politics. Is it cheating that they had to deploy novelty Christmas hats? You decide.Our review of 2023 starts with a fresh-faced and optimistic Rishi Sunak making his five pledges, and ends with the Conservatives tearing themselves apart over Rwanda. In between, we take in King Charles getting his fancy new hat, Nicola Sturgeon’s shock exit, Boris Johnson getting his comeuppance, Keir Starmer getting glitterbombed, and of course, the continuing mis-adventures of Suella Braverman.Plus two Ben’s battle it out for the title of PSUK Hero of the Year, while it’s more of a one-man race to the title of PSUK Villain of the Year. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Andy Zaltzman, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s The News Quiz, and The Bugle podcastCatherine Bohart, comedian and co-presenter of Trusty Hogs podcast Audio credits:Sky NewsBBC NewsRishi Sunak - InstagramITV NewsGB NewsSTV News Useful links:https://www.catherinebohart.com/livehttps://www.thebuglepodcast.com/live


Just Stop Politics! Nish and Coco’s review of 2023

Rishi Sunak endured one his toughest weeks yet as Prime Minister, as he faced the Covid Inquiry and tried to placate rebellious MPs. But he lived to fight another day - as does his controversial Rwanda Bill. For Westminster watchers it was all about the mooted rebellion that didn’t materialise, but for Nish and Coco, the real story was the death of an asylum seeker aboard the Bibby Stockholm barge. For Nish, this stark warning about the potentially tragic effects of inhumane policies, should be cause for introspection amongst our political leaders.The news that the final report of the Grenfell Inquiry has been pushed back once again, has frustrated many of those waiting to see justice done. Journalist Peter Apps joins Nish and Coco to discuss the inquiry, and offer his analysis of the systemic issues that allowed the tragedy to happen…and whether it could happen again.Welsh political journalist Will Hayward also pops up to offer an instant reaction to the news that the Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford is stepping down - what’s his lasting legacy, and what happens next? Plus find out what Climate Change Minister Graham Stuart has done to make him Nish’s villain of the week, while Coco brings some festive cheer with her hero of the week. Plus we want your nominations for ‘the political moment of the year’ - good or bad, silly or serious - email them to PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Will Hayward, journalist for Wales OnlinePeter Apps, journalist and author of Show Me the Bodies: How We Let Grenfell Happen Audio credits:UK Covid 19 InquiryParliamentlive.tvSky NewsITV News Useful links:Peter Apps’ book: https://oneworld-publications.com/work/show-me-the-bodies-2/Inquest’s campaign for a National Oversight Mechanism: https://www.inquest.org.uk/no-more-deaths-campaignhttps://www.crisis.org.uk/ Our sponsors: https://auraframes.com/PSUK (Use promo code PSUK)


Sunak survives, plus the long wait for Grenfell justice

Please note: This podcast includes a description of a death from Covid, that some may find distressing. This week saw arguably the most anticipated moment of the Covid Inquiry so far, the first appearance of Boris Johnson, who was Prime Minister during the pandemic. Over two days at the hearing, he offered an apology and  admitted some mistakes were made, but defended his overall approach.In this bonus episode, Nish and Coco find out how his words went down with those most deeply affected by the pandemic, those who lost their loved ones. Susie Crozier-Flintham, who lost her dad Howard, reveals what it was like to be in the room to hear his testimony - she says he refused to look at the families who were there, and in fact arrived 3 hours early just so he could avoid them.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Susie Crozier-Flintham, Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice Audio credits: Uk Covid-19 Inquiry Useful links:https://covid19.public-inquiry.uk/


Bereaved families’ verdict on Boris Johnson at the Covid Inquiry

It’s been a big week in the Tories’ war on foreigners. While efforts to resuscitate the Rwanda plan continue, Nish and Coco pick over the Government’s five-point plan to reduce legal immigration. For Nish, these are measures produced by people who clearly have no lived experience of relying on the NHS or on social care. Coco points out the cruelty of minimum income plans that could split families up, and also discriminate against women.Former National Security Adviser to Obama, and co-host of Pod Save the World, Ben Rhodes, joins us to give us the American view on Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer. As someone who’s been in the room with Benjamin Netenyahu, Ben gives us his take on the Israel Gaza crisis, and reflections on the stance taken by the UK and the US as the situation worsens. Plus, don’t miss a glorious anecdote that takes in the twin British obsessions of royalty and toilets!Nish’s Hero of the week salutes MPs and campaigners who defeated the Government on compensation for people affected by the contaminated blood scandal. While Coco’s villain is a building contractor whose shoddy workmanship means kids are having to do their lessons in tents. Plus we want your nominations for ‘the political moment of the year’ - good or bad - email them to PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Ben Rhodes, co-host of Pod Save the World, and former White House Deputy National Security Adviser Audio credits:parliamentlive.tvThe TelegraphSky News Useful links:https://auraframes.com/PSUK (Use promo code PSUK)https://shopify.co.uk/podsavetheukhttps://cariuma.com/PSUK


Tory Immigration crackdown, plus Ben Rhodes on following the Queen into the toilet

Rishi Sunak’s decision to publicly snub the Greek Prime Minister in a row over the Parthenon Marbles, has left Nish and Coco wondering whether he possesses any of the skills to be a global statesman? Worrying then, that his next stop is the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. Politico’s Karl Mathiesen joins us to talk about the UK’s place in the climate debate, and the contradictions of a COP hosted by an oil-rich state.Sunak, Cleverly, Braverman, Patel, Javid…the Conservative governments of the last few years have been the most diverse ever.  But is that really something to celebrate? Kehinde Andrews, the UK’s first Professor of Black Studies, doesn’t think so. He talks to Nish and Coco about politics, black history, taking on Piers Morgan and much more in a fascinating chat about his book, The Psychosis of Whiteness.Plus heroes and villains has a bit of an Indiana Jones vibe this week! And find out why it’s not a good idea to employ Nish to mind your shop.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Kehinde Andrews, Professor of Black Studies at Birmingham City University, and author of The Psychosis of WhitenessKarl Mathiesen, Climate correspondent at Politico Europe Audio credits:Parliamentlive.tvSunday with Laura Kuenssberg / BBC TV Useful links:https://choose.love/https://hopenothate.org.uk/https://keepcampsfieldclosed.uk/https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/142438/kehinde-andrews


Sunak’s big fat Greek blunder, plus will COP28 be a COP out?

This week the attention of British political journalists was firmly fixed on Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who unveiled big tax cuts in his much-anticipated Autumn Statement on Wednesday. The Conservative government’s cuts to National Insurance will put a few more pounds into UK payslips starting January– but at what cost? The Guardian’s Kiran Stacey joins Nish and Coco to explain what these cuts mean for public services (spoiler alert: it’s not good), and to explain why these proposals look like the work of a Chancellor who doesn’t plan to be in office much longer. While the Tories plot out a strategy for the next election– and its aftermath– the millions of people using food banks have other concerns. Helen Barnard, Director of Policy, Research &amp; Impact at the Trussell Trust explains what the Autumn Statement means for people struggling with food insecurity and homelessness, and why tax cuts typically benefit the wealthiest members of society, not the poorest. She also lays out what kinds of structural changes could help end poverty.Planned changes to the disability benefits program give Nish a villain for the week, while Coco celebrates the heroic campaigners of Stop MSG Sphere whose activism successfully halted plans to build a bulbous, pulsating light-polluting orb-shaped music venue in Stratford, East London.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:Helen Barnard, Director of Policy, Research &amp; Impact at the Trussell TrustKiran Stacey, Political Correspondent, The Guardian Audio credits:UK Covid-19 InquirySky NewsITV News Londonparliamentlive.tv Useful links:Helen Barnard’s book: www.waterstones.com/book/want/helen-barnard/9781788213974Visit our sponsors: auraframes.com/psuk, promo code: PSUKVisit crooked.com/store for Christmas present ideas


The Tories’ back-handed budgeting

A frantic week in UK politics, that started with the sacking of Suella Braverman and the shock return of David Cameron, took another huge twist as the Supreme Court ruled that the Government’s plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda was unlawful. Rishi Sunak however came out fighting, announcing an emergency bill to keep the policy alive.Plenty then for Nish and Coco to get their teeth stuck into with guest, LBC presenter and “conscience of liberal Britain” James O’Brien. His book ‘How they broke Britain’ features a cast of nefarious characters, including Cameron himself - how suitable is he for the role of Foreign Secretary? Also in the firing line is the right-wing media and Paul Dacre in particular, while we also learn about the less well-known shadowy cabal of conservative think tanks and the tactics they employ to influence public opinion. But is Jeremy Corbyn worthy of a place on James’ shit list?Plus why Nish and James are ‘disaster capitalists’, Nish makes a shock news hat admission, and we have a bumper heroes and villains, as James weighs in with his selections. Find out what ITV has done to upset Nish, and why Coco puts James to shame by nominating 44,000 heroes!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:James O’Brien, LBC radio presenter, and author of ‘How they broke Britain’Audio credits:ITV Breakfast/Edinburgh TV FestivalITV Studios/@NigelFarageparliamentlive.tvTalk TV


Judges block Rwanda plan, plus who broke Britain with James O’Brien

Nish and Coco jump on for an emergency bonus episode to reflect on a day of high political drama. Rishi Sunak reshuffles his top team, with the axe finally falling on his controversial Home Secretary Suella Braverman. That was followed by an even bigger shock…the appointment of former Prime Minister David Cameron as Foreign Secretary.Nish and Coco reflect on Cameron’s questionable legacy since leaving politics, and wonder what it means that he’s been appointed to the House of Lords in order to be given the job - can it be right that MP’s won’t have the chance to question him in the Commons? Also, beyond the headline moves, Nish wonders what it tells us that we now have our 16th Housing Minister since 2010. Whilst a reshuffle might be exciting for politics watchers, what are the consequences for the rest of us, of ministers being switched between jobs at such an alarming rate? Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld


Bye bye Braverman, hello Cameron

King Charles’ first State Opening of Parliament as monarch, provides plenty of pomp, pageantry and politics for Nish and Coco to get stuck into. It’s a spectacle that throws up lots of questions, including who is Black Rod, and why does an MP get taken hostage by the Palace? As the Government presents its legislative agenda for the year ahead, we ask why is it so slim? Could it signal an early election? Nish and Coco are also incredulous as to why, with so much that needs fixing in this country, valuable space in the speech is given over to cracking down on pedicabs!!The New Statesman’s politics correspondent Zoë Grünewald is on hand to explain the splits in Labour over Gaza, as we see the first resignation from Keir Starmer’s front bench. We also discuss why so much political hot air is being expelled over this weekend’s pro-Palestinian protest - is it really disrespectful to have an anti-war march on Remembrence weekend? One of the loudest critics has of course been Home Secretary Suella Braverman - following a string of controversial pronouncements, we wonder if she’s actually trying to get herself sacked by Rishi Sunak?Plus in our Hero and Villain of the Week section, find out how a bowl of Potpourri helped raise £50,000 for charity, and why an underwear magnate could soon be under a vest! Also, what exactly is a News Hat?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:Zoë Grünewald, Policy &amp; politics correspondent at The New StatesmanAudio credits:parliamentlive.tvSky NewsUseful links:Visit our sponsors: cariuma.com/PSUKFind the What A Day Newsletter at crooked.com/daily


The King’s Speech: Milli Vanilli in a gold hat

The latest hearings at the Covid Inquiry reveal chaos and dysfunction at the heart of Government during the pandemic. Did Boris Johnson really think Covid was nature’s way of dealing with old people? Nish and Coco sift through the swearing and the gossip to get to the heart of what really matters about the latest revelations.Coco tells Nish about her experience attending the huge rally, calling for a ceasefire in the Israel Gaza crisis, in London last weekend. How does she feel about Suella Braverman’s characterisation of the rallies as “hate marches”?With Silicon Valley’s finest - and Elon Musk - in the UK for Rishi Sunak’s big AI Summit, Nish and Coco have a play around with ChatGPT…can it come up with a script for them to introduce the show? Cristina Criddle joins the show from Bletchley Park to take us inside the summit and explain what it may or may not achieve. Plus Nish and Coco’s hero and villain of the week, and do YOU find Rishi Sunak sexy?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:Cristina Criddle, Technology reporter at the Financial Times Audio credits:UK Covid 19 InquirySky News Useful link:The Cariuma x Crooked, Lovett or Leave It sneaker is available at crooked.com/store


No.10’s shameful Covid WhatsApps, plus is AI a threat to humanity?

As the Israel Gaza crisis continues, pressure grows on both Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer to back calls for a ceasefire. Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UK, explains why he supports it and what else needs to happen for it to be meaningful. He also has advice for how you can help, either through safe protest, or through donation. Nish and Coco also ‘celebrate’ Rishi Sunak’s year at Number 10, revealing their highs and lows of 12 months of Sunak.Is the Government’s promise to end ‘no-fault’ evictions being kicked into the long grass? Nish and Coco try and work out the political manoeuvring, with the help of Toby Lloyd, who was the Downing Street housing adviser who persuaded Theresa May to promote the policy when she was Prime Minister. He also reveals what it was like to work inside the cramped rooms of Number 10…where there’s every chance that your meeting might be disturbed by the Chancellor’s wife coming home with the food shop!Plus find out why Coco has been having a “fat bear week”. This week Nish and Coco’s great nominations for hero and villain of the week can be found on our social media platforms…find out by why bankers are winding up Nish, and why Coco’s fallen in love with a sheepdog.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuests:Sacha Deshmukh, Chief Executive of Amnesty International UKToby Lloyd, Housing policy expert Audio credits:The Guardian10 Downing StreetParliamentlive.tv


A year of Sunak, and why housing is eating our economy

The crisis in Israel and Gaza presents a huge challenge for our politicians, both internationally and at home. With protests on the streets and spikes in religious hate crimes, every word uttered by our leaders is diplomatically loaded. Nish and Coco discuss the difficulties of Labour’s position, and then return to record a fresh section at the start of this podcast in reaction to Rishi Sunak’s surprise overnight visit to Israel.Pia Sinha of the Prison Reform Trust helps us understand why our prisons are full to bursting, and whether emergency action from the Justice Secretary will solve the problem. With asylum seekers being returned to the Bibby Stockholm accommodation barge, Anoosh Chakelian of The New Statesman, tells us about meeting some of those men. Plus she also gives us the lowdown on two very intriguing by-elections this week.Heroes and Villains returns, which is more bad news for disgraced former Tory MP Peter Bone. Plus find out why Coco and her cat could be heading for a divorce.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Pia Sinha, Director of The Prison Reform TrustAnoosh Chakelian, Britain Editor of The New Statesman Audio credits:Sky News@TheArchbishopofCanterbury


Sunak in Israel, by-elections and back to Bibby

Despite being an American, who can’t even vote in this country, Rob Delaney has become an outspoken champion of the NHS. His love for our health service was born from tragedy: losing his young son Henry to cancer. He tells Nish and Coco why we have to fight for the NHS, and compares it to an American system which enriches CEOs and advertising execs. Find out why he thinks Joe Biden is the best president of his lifetime, and what he thinks of Keir Starmer. Plus with a cameo in the new Mission Impossible film, Rob is perfectly placed to answer Nish’s question: what does Tom Cruise smell like?Party Conference season continues, with insights into two very different gatherings: Labour in Liverpool and the Greens in Brighton. Coco describes what she got up to when she went down to the seaside at the invitation of Greens co-leader Carla Denyer - did they manage to woo her to their cause? Plus George Parker of the Financial Times, gives us all the gossip from the Labour get-together - was all that glitters gold? Did Keir Starmer convince as a Prime Minister in waiting?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Rob Delaney, comedian, actor and author of ‘A Heart That Works’George Parker, political editor of The Financial Times Useful links:Rob’s book: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/rob-delaney-2/a-heart-that-works/9781399710848/New podcast from Crooked: https://crooked.com/podcast-series/ruined/Show sponsor: https://brighttax.com/pstuk Audio credits:Royal College of Nursing Sky News@robdelaney


Sparkles with Starmer plus Rob Delaney, NHS champion

Coco and her special guest Femi Oluwole pore over the bin fire that was the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester. Was Sunak strengthened or weakened by the whole HS2 fiasco - and what was the thinking behind wheeling out his wife for a surprise appearance? With the likes of Braverman, Truss - and even Farage - being feted by the party faithful, Coco and Femi discuss the party’s lurch to the right. Plus Femi on playing real-life Pokemon Go in Manchester…only with Tory Ministers.What’s it like for the people of Northern Ireland to be without a functioning government for the last 18 months? The SDLP’s Matthew O’Toole explains the real world effects of the collapse of power sharing - including on the country’s drinking water. He also tells us why being in Stormont right now is like being on the set of The Shining.Plus Femi has some tips for budding activists, and reflects on the personal toll of putting himself in the firing line by calling out Brexit lies. You can find Coco and Femi’s Hero and Villain of the week on our social media channels.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Femi Oluwole, journalist, political commentator and content creator Matthew O’Toole, SDLP member of the Legislative Assembly for South Belfast, and Leader of the Opposition in the Northern Ireland AssemblyUseful links:Find Femi on X: @Femi_Sorry / or YouTube: FemiFind Cariuma x Lovett Or Leave It at crooked.com/storeAudio credits:@Femi_SorryConservatives


Tory conference sh*tshow + Stormont stalemate

The Conservative Party heads to Manchester for its Conference as rumours swirl that Rishi Sunak is going to axe the Birmingham to Manchester leg of the HS2 high speed rail line that was supposed to unlock the potential of The North - a bit awkward then! Coco and her special guest Grace Blakeley discuss why it’s all gone wrong and what it says about us as a country that we can’t seem to deliver big infrastructure projects on budget, on time, or at all.With party conference season in full swing, Lib Dem MP Layla Moran (and her cat Murphy) joins us after their shindig in Bournemouth. She discusses tactical voting and tells us that her party definitely won’t be going into coalition with the Tories - although it doesn’t have any ‘red lines’ for working with Labour. Plus she reveals the Labour ‘diss’ track she sang at the infamous Lib Dem ‘Glee Club’ karaoke night.Coco and Grace discuss the scandal engulfing GB News, amid calls for it to be taken off air, following an avalanche of complaints over Laurence Fox’s offensive comments about a female journalist. And Coco asks Grace if she would go on GB News.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guests:Grace Blakeley, economist and authorLayla Moran, Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, and party spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and International Development Audio credit:Liberal Democrats


Cancelling HS2 and GB News + Lib Dem Layla Moran

In the wake of the allegations of rape and sexual assault against Russell Brand, Nish says his behaviour was an open secret, and Brand’s TV work dried up as people refused to work with him. Nish also reveals that there are others still working in the industry about whom production staff will say “oh we don’t send young women into their dressing rooms”. Coco highlights the wider cultural issues that lead to women feeling unsafe in the workplace and also unwilling to report assaults to the police.Six months on from Dame Louise Casey’s damning report into the Metropolitan Police, we ask what progress has been made? Former Met Superintendent, Dr Leroy Logan MBE, tells Nish and Coco it’s not a case of a few bad apples, but of the “whole barrel’ being rotten. He also has some stinging criticism for Home Secretary Suella Braverman. Despite everything however, he says he’d still encourage his grandchildren to join the force.You won’t be surprised to find that Nish’s villain of the week is a certain ‘lettuce adjacent’ politician, but you may be surprised by Coco’s hero…Danish artist Jens Haaning. Plus Coco steals Nish’s seat, and poses the question; what’s your favourite Beck album?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644 572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644 572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Useful links:In the UK, Rape Crisis offers support for rape and sexual abuse on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, or 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland. In the US, Rainn offers support on 800-656-4673. In Australia, support is available at 1800Respect (1800 737 732). Other international helplines can be found at ibiblio.org/rcip/internl.htmlLeroy Logan is patron of https://www.voyageyouth.com/Guest:Dr Leroy Logan MBE, former Met Police superintendent, and former Chairman of the National Black Police Association.Audio credits:Russell Brand: In Plain Sight: Dispatches (Channel 4/Hardcash Productions)Red, White and Blue (Small Axe Films Ltd/BBC)BBC News


The Russell Brand scandal and fixing the police

Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy reveals what it was like in Westminster when the news broke that a parliamentary researcher, with close links to leading Tory politicians, had been arrested on suspicion of spying for China. Mr Lammy tells Nish and Coco that the atmosphere at Westminster is “febrile”, with MPs having to think carefully about who they rely on for advice and research. He also sets out Labour’s position on the threat posed by China. Plus as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jung Un hold an “evil bro hangout”, just how worried should we be?Find out what UK Apprentice presenter Lord Sugar did to become our inadvertent hero of the week, while Coco calls out the Daily Mail for trying to use a black writer to publish critical views of the Notting Hill Carnival. Plus, British v Indian cold remedies - who comes out on top?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Guest:David Lammy, Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, and Labour MP for TottenhamAudio credit:parliamentlive.tv


China spy scandal rocks Parliament + David Lammy

Nish and Coco reflect on a scandal they think is a perfect metaphor for Tory-led Britain. Schools have had to close because they’ve been built using cheap and unstable concrete (called RAAC), while there are also concerns over hospitals and other public buildings. So as the country crumbles around us, who’s to blame?Labour leader Keir Starmer has reshuffled his top team ahead of next year’s expected general election. Coco welcomes brand new Shadow Minister for Creative Industries and Digital, Chris Bryant, into the studio. He gives his reaction to his appointment and admits he’s a bit “discombobulated” after a whirlwind day. He reveals how reshuffles haven’t always gone well for him, and impresses Coco with his impression of Tony Blair. He also talks about his new book 'Code of Conduct', which seeks to provide a blueprint to make Westminster politics work better. Also find out Chris Bryant’s favourite Sugababes song, why Nish fears being kidnapped by Kevin Bacon, and which action hero should voice Nadine Dorries’ new book.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldUseful links:Article by Merope Mills: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/sep/04/daughter-died-hospital-families-treatment-martha-ruleGuests:Sir Chris Bryant, Labour MP for Rhondda, and Shadow Minister for Creative Industries and DigitalAudio credits:Parliamentlive.tvITV NewsBBC Radio 4@Ettifaq


Fixing Britain’s crumbling schools and broken politics

More 16 to 17-year-old boys recognise Andrew Tate than Rishi Sunak - have we been guilty of underestimating the influence of Tate’s brand of toxic masculinity? Nish and Coco speak to journalist Matt Shea, who has spent years investigating the notorious misogynist. His new documentary uncovers the truth behind Tate’s ‘War Room’ club, and investigates claims members are taught how to groom women into online sex work. We also learn about the mysterious mastermind behind Tate, who has so far remained in the shadows.As Labour promises not to implement wealth taxes, Nish and Coco wonder if we’ve all missed ‘the secret wink’ that means it’ll all be ok once they’re in power. Plus Nish and Coco bid farewell to Nadine Dorries, who finally quit as an MP 81 days after saying she would. They look back at her ‘best bits’ and reflect on the battle for her Mid Bedfordshire seat. Find out if Nish will be buying Theresa May’s new book, and why do so many people seem to mis-understand the film The Matrix?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworld Useful links:Watch Matt Shea’s documentary here (UK only): https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001q1n6/andrew-tate-andrew-tate-the-man-who-groomed-the-worldVote for us: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting Guests:Matt Shea, journalist and documentary filmmaker Audio credits:BBC Three - Andrew Tate: The Man Who Groomed the World?The Mail on SundayBBC BreakfastTikTok/@nadinedorriesmpParliament.tvChannel 4 News


Exposing Andrew Tate and saying goodbye to Nadine Dorries

With the headlines dominated by Lucy Letby, the most prolific child killer in modern British history, Nish and Coco reflect on the proper role for politicians in cases like this. While we crave reassurance from figures in authority, should they resist the urge to wade in with an easy soundbite? Plus we also reflect on the other big story of the week, the women’s World Cup final, and ask why it’s always men in suits who have to spoil things?With music venues and nightclubs shutting at an alarming rate, Nish and Coco talk to an agent and a DJ about whether the UK’s nightlife is in crisis. Do politicians place enough value in the night time economy? Can anything be done to reverse the trend, or is it as a result of our changing cultural habits? Also, why ‘Insomnia’ should be Coco’s current club anthem of choice, and why newsrooms are enjoying the comeback of the August ‘silly season’. Plus we celebrate some world class swearing, and Nish has some ideas for the new Conservative Party general election slogan.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldUseful links:Save The Night event at Fabric in London (free daytime event to support the global nightlife community):https://ra.co/events/1754683Ladies Music Club: Supporting women, non-binary and trans people in musichttps://www.ladiesmusicpub.com/Power Up: supporting Black music creators and industry professionalshttps://prsfoundation.com/powerup/Guests:Hannah Shogbola, music agent at United Artists, and founder of creative consultancy DajuGaia Ahuja, DJ and member of Girls Don’t SyncAudio credits:Sky Sports News RFEF


Men in suits spoiling women’s football

Returning from their summer holidays, Nish and Coco reflect on the failure of the Government’s ‘small boats week’. It was supposed to showcase progress but, instead it ended in the tragic deaths of a number of people trying to cross the Channel. An interesting time then for Tory HQ to step up their war on so-called ‘lefty lawyers’. We hear from immigration lawyer Jacqueline McKenzie, who was the target of a Conservative smear campaign. She tells Nish and Coco how right wing newspapers were given a four page dossier on her, riddled with inaccuracies and misrepresentations, trying to tie her to the Labour Party. She says it’s an experience that will scar her for life.Economics expert Grace Blakeley joins Coco and Nish to reflect on the week’s big news on inflation and jobs…picking apart why the positive headlines might be a bit misleading. Nish, Coco and Grace also fess up to the most expensive meals they’ve ever had, in light of Rishi Sunak’s $1200-a-head Disneyland dining experience. Among the questions discussed: Does it matter that our PM is so rich? Who controls the economy? And…should we have billionaires at all?Plus hero and villain of the week, tales from Vietnam and Edinburgh, and why it’s easier to teach a dog to surf than Nish. Also find out why Nish and Coco have the cleanest bottoms in podcastland!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldStand Up to Racism Dorset: https://www.facebook.com/SUTRDorset/Contact via sutrdorset@gmail.com Guests:Jacqueline McKenzie, partner and head of immigration and asylum law at Leigh DayGrace Blakeley, journalist, author and economics commentator Audio credits:GB News


Tories war on 'lefty lawyers', and Sunak's Disney dinner

In a politics increasingly dominated by ‘wedge issues’ and the ‘woke’ divide, Nish and Coco explore whether it’s possible to have constructive conversations on social issues with people with whom you disagree. The activist and author Gina Martin reveals the lessons she’s learnt from her career as an activist, which started when she was a victim of upskirting. Her campaign ended up changing the law to make upskirting a specific sexual offence. Gina also has lots of tips for Pod Save The UK from her new book ‘No Offence, But…’.  As Nish and Coco prepare to go on their summer break, Coco reveals what she’ll be getting up to on her honeymoon. Plus we salute the anarchic genius of 90’s Saturday morning kids TV…with shout outs to Cat Deeley and Wonky Donkey!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Insta: https://instagram.com/podsavetheukTwitter: https://twitter.com/podsavetheukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@podsavetheukFacebook: https://facebook.com/podsavetheukYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/podsavetheworldGuest:Gina Martin, campaigner and author of ‘No Offence, But…: How to have difficult conversation for meaningful change’


How to have difficult conversations - with Gina Martin

Is a combination of a progressive alliance, tactical voting and proportional representation the way to save the UK from Tory rule? Neal Lawson, founder of the pressure group Compass, argues that there would have been no Boris Johnson or Liz Truss if left-leaning parties had been able to work together. Neal, who’s been a Labour member for 44 years, also explains why he’s facing possible expulsion from the Labour Party for tweeting in favour of tactical voting.Have Labour fallen into a Tory trap by following last week’s by-elections? Nish and Coco examine why the headlines have been about the costs of green policy, rather than historic Tory defeats. Also with homeless numbers rising, why isn’t there more urgency around legislation to ban Section 21 evictions?.Plus the schoolkids who put Robert Jenrick to shame, and why Coco’s mum loves Minions. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuest:Neal Lawson, founder of the pressure group Compass


Tactical voting, Tory traps and Labour purges

Nish and Coco can’t resist popping up for a special bonus mini-episode to discuss the Super Thursday by-election results. A revolt against Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan’s Ulez low emissions policy hands the Tories a lifeline to hang on to their seat in Uxbridge and Ruislip - Coco hopes that doesn’t encourage Labour HQ to sideline their green agenda.Better news for Labour in Selby and Ainsty where Kier the Younger - Labour candidate Keir Mather - successfully overturns the biggest majority ever in a by-election by the Labour Party. While in Somerton and Frome a huge win for the Liberal Democrats means Coco gets to enjoy leader Ed Davey pulling another of his cheesy victory stunts.


By-election special: Tories trounced in two, scrape home in one

Nish and Coco ask “what’s going on with Labour?” Sir Keir Starmer caused consternation within his own ranks, by saying he wouldn’t abolish a two-child limit on claiming some benefits - a Tory policy that many of his frontbench colleagues have condemned. Nish and Coco wonder why politically tough decisions only ever seem to come at the expense of the poorest in society. SNP MP Mhairi Black tells Nish and Coco about dodging falling masonry,  sociopaths and bullies in the corridors of Westminster - part of the reason she’s quitting at the age of 28. We also have a handy guide to three crucial by-elections. Plus why you should never accept a plum from Coco - or invite her to a picnic!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk WhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuest:Mhairi Black, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South, and deputy leader of the SNP at Westminster.Audio credits:Sunday with Laura KuenssbergBBC Newsparliamentlive.tv


Is Keir Starmer a Kid Starver?

While the UK was losing its senses over a sex scandal, the BBC and a tabloid newspaper, Nish brings some sanity. His advice to journalists and politicians: if you know nothing, why not shut up? What we learn from the story is that the UK needs more facts and less speculation.In Nish’s crosshairs is Tory MP Lee Anderson. He called the BBC a “safe haven for perverts” while his party and Westminster faces an epidemic of sexual harassment allegations.Carla Denyer - co leader of the Green Party in England and Wales -  is Coco and Nish’s special guest. The Greens could offer the most radical policies at the next General Election: taxing on multi millionaires, decriminalising drugs and welcoming migrants. But can the party persuade trans people the Greens are their ally? President Biden drops in for tea at Number 10 but his British best mate is not the Prime Minister, it’s King Charles. And immigration minister and cartoon destroyer, Robert Jenrick, is villain of the week.https://www.change.org/p/robert-jenrick-restore-cartoons-at-children-s-asylum-centres?source_location=searchPod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheuk Guests:Carla Denyer, co-leader of The Green Party Audio credits:Sky NewsParliamentlive.tv


Tea with Biden, scandal at the BBC and drugs with the Greens

Does Rishi Sunak care about the climate crisis? A former minister accuses him of apathy, and a leaked memo suggests he’s considering rolling back one of the UK’s key financial climate pledges. Just Stop Oil’s Chloe Naldrett joins Nish and Coco with a personal message for the Prime Minister. While we’re recording, Wimbledon becomes the latest sporting event to be hit by protestors, so we drag Chloe back into the studio to give us an instant reaction. She also tells why being shouted at by Piers Morgan was worth it, and why she was willing to go to prison for what she believed in. Plus advice on how you can get involved if you’re feeling helpless about climate change.Nish and Coco examine Rishi Sunak’s grilling by the House of Commons Liaison Committee. Meanwhile his enemies within the party form a new not-so-supergroup called The New Conservatives - although they’re singing a familiar song…about “culturally secure borders”.Plus Coco has a run in with Twitter and reveals that she loves a parody knock off fashion item - and heroes and villains returns, much to the relief of Nish’s mum!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheuk Guests:Chloe Naldrett, spokesperson for Just Stop Oil Audio credits:Just Stop OilParliamentlive.tvSky SportsThe Diary of a CEO podcast


Does Rishi Sunak give a sh*t about the climate?

Matt Hancock fails to win over bereaved families at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, as they turn their backs on him while another confronts him dressed as the grim reaper. Nish and Coco get to grips with ‘greedflation’ as MPs question supermarket bosses about their huge salaries. Plus Coco questions why Labour has an all-white all-male line up of candidates for the upcoming by-elections. And Nish is disheartened by a report that finds cricket is racist, sexist and elitist - the “full fruit machine” of prejudice!We continue ‘Chat Shit Get Banged’, our campaign to stop politicians lying, with the help of John Humphrys, former presenter of Radio 4’s Today programme. The man once labelled the BBC’s ‘Rottweiler in chief’ reflects on his 33 years holding politicians to account, including memorable encounters with Boris Johnson and Margaret Thatcher.Also, tales from Glastonbury, and Prigozhin v Putin - how did a hotdog seller build up his own private army? Plus Coco gets a surprise Patreon request.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheuk Guests:John Humphrys, Classic FM presenter and former presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme Audio credits:Uk Covid-19 InquiryParliamentlive.tvSky News


Matt Hancock vs The Grim Reaper

Labour’s Andy Burnham, tells Nish and Coco why he doesn’t mind being labelled ‘The King of the North’ and why he thinks our political system needs a complete rewiring. He also gives his reaction to the demise of his old pandemic-era foe Boris Johnson, and shrugs off concerns about the city of Manchester getting into bed with Abu Dhabi - the owners who’ve brought such success to Manchester City F.C.  We celebrate the 75th Windrush anniversary with a member of the Windrush generation, Catherine Ross, who tells us how Caribbean people introduced the British to moisturising amongst many things! Nish and Coco meanwhile, take the Home Office to task for backtracking on promises made in the wake of the Windrush scandal.Plus, the mortgage time bomb set to go off before the next election, the return of austerity twins David Cameron and George Osborne, and why Rishi Sunak is “chicken shit”. Coco also reveals why footballing hardman Graeme Souness made her cry, and who is the mystery PSUK fan known only as ChickenNugNugz?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuests:Andy Burnham, Labour Mayor of Greater ManchesterCatherine Ross, Founder and Director of Museumand, The National Caribbean Heritage MuseumAudio credits:Good Morning Britain (ITV)BBC Breakfast TVBBC News


The King of the North, Windrush and ChickenNugNugz

Nish and Coco are reunited in the studio following a tumultuous week in politics that saw Boris Johnson resign and Nicola Sturgeon arrested. Sky News’ Liz Bates tells us why Johnson’s demise could be good news for the strength of UK democracy, and explains why the independence movement is holding firm despite the SNP’s woes.Given it was Johnson’s party-ing during Covid that brought him down, it’s timely that the public hearings in the Covid Inquiry got underway this week. Labour frontbencher, Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, tells us why she went back to working 12 hour shifts in hospital during the worst of the pandemic. She reveals some of the harrowing things she saw, and why she felt pity for Matt Hancock when she faced him in the Commons.Is Manchester United fan Nish bitter about Manchester City’s success? His choice for villain of the week answers that question, while Coco’s hero is an acting legend who always keeps an onion in her handbag. Plus get ready for the latest bit of PSUK merch - the “left-wing Barbie”.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuests:Liz Bates, Sky News Political CorrespondentDr Rosena Allin-Khan, Shadow Minister for Mental Health and MP for TootingAudio credits:Talk TVUK Covid-19 InquiryParliamentlive.tvBritish Vogue


The end of Boris Johnson and the start of the Covid Inquiry

Can the Labour Party save the UK? Labour frontbencher Emily Thornberry is challenged by Nish and Coco over her party’s attack ads, and on the Labour manifesto - which she promises will help young people, and be bullshit free. Find out why she thinks being Labour leader is the hardest job in the world, and what she got up to behind the bike sheds with David Cameron.Plus, Mr Sunak goes to Washington, Prince Harry goes to court, and a familiar Brexit campaigner returns (clue: his blood type is real ale). Plus find out why Nish feels like he’s in Mad Max, and why Coco is celebrating Bristol’s toilets!Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuests:Emily Thornberry, Labour MP for Islington South and Finsbury, and Shadow Attorney General for England and WalesAudio credits:Parliamentlive.tv@Nigel_Farage


Labour’s Emily Thornberry promises a “no bullshit” manifesto

Nish and Coco ask how we can save the UK from knife crime. It turns out we have evidence of what works - so why aren’t we doing it? We meet Jon Yates, who leads a charity that has been given £200 million by the Home Office to research what works and then put it into practice. He’s trialling a targeted, interventionist approach, called ‘focused deterrence’ which helped Glasgow dramatically reduce violent crime. Those lessons are now going to be applied in 5 cities in the UK. One of those is Nottingham, a city that’s home to Dr Marcellus Baz, a community champion who turned his life around after being stabbed - what does he think of Jon’s plans? Nish and Coco also cut through the rows about notebooks and WhatsApp messages to talk about why the Covid Inquiry really matters - they have a message for  the government: “don’t mess with a Baroness”. Plus we salute the Secret Tory and ask is the Post Office racist?Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuests:Jon Yates, Chief Executive of the Youth Endowment FundDr Marcellus Baz, founder and CEO of Switch Up, which supports young people away from crime in NottinghamshireAudio credits:Sky News @secrettory12 


Don’t mess with a Baroness

Why did Suella Braverman’s speeding ticket take up so much oxygen, and who did it serve? Nish and Coco discuss whether the leaks against the Home Secretary are symptomatic of a party that’s heading into yet another bout of self-destructive psychodrama. As if that’s not enough, Boris Johnson is back in trouble too! As another set of record migration figures are published, Nish and Coco reflect on the immigrant experience and how it forged their own friendship. And there’s a big serving of hope too…in the form of economist and philosopher Daniel Chandler and his ideas to improve our politics - democracy vouchers anyone?Plus Coco delivers a lesson in Greek Mythology, and find out what Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Succession’s Logan Roy have in common.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.ukWhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuest:Daniel Chandler, economist, philosopher and author of Free and Equal: What would a fair society look like?Audio credits:Parliament.tv


Speedy Sue and other myth-takes

Never ones to shirk a challenge, Nish and Coco launch ‘Chat Shit Get Banged’, their campaign to stop politicians from lying. They get some expert help from Will Moy, from fact checkers Full Fact - he’s dedicated his life to correcting the mistakes and mistruths of the people elected to lead us…not mislead us. With a general election on the horizon next year, he tells them he’s done with “bullshit manifestos”, and reveals how AI could help root out the liars.Campaigning works! Nish and Coco dissect the new Renters Reform Bill, which has finally been published thanks to the tireless efforts of people like our guest Anny Cullum, one of the founders of the community union Acorn. But does it go far enough? The Bill doesn't really address rocketing rents, so we ask if rent controls are the next battleground.Plus, Nish takes on the NatCons, but has a rare good word for Jacob Rees-Mogg. We also introduce you to Marvel’s newest superhero: Ombudsman, and find out why Coco knows so much about rats’ mating habits.If you want to support Full Fact’s campaign to amend the rules to make it easier for politicians to correct mistakes, then you can sign their petition here: https://actions.fullfact.org/petitions/mps-owe-us-truth/?utm_source=%2F&amp;utm_medium=home Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk. WhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Twitter: @podsavetheukGuests:Will Moy, Chief Exec of the fact checking charity Full Fact Anny Cullum, Policy Officer and Researcher for the tenants and community union ACORNAudio credits:https://nationalconservatism.org/@NatConTalk


Facts, Rats and Rents

While we were busy being dazzled by glittery crowns and golden coaches…did the authorities sneak in and steal away our rights? New laws have given the police wide ranging powers to arrest protestors - scuppering the plans of anti-monarchy protestors to demonstrate against the Coronation. Instead they were arrested, detained and then released without charge - after the event was safely over. Nish and Coco ask barrister and activist Paul Powlesland  and ask what happened to the British love of freedom? Plus find out why a PSUK listener spent 15 hours outside his local polling station; why the Coronation gave Coco ‘Showgirls’ vibes; why Coco can't wait for Eurovision; and why Labour and the Lib Dems are in danger of being ‘vagina adjacent’. Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Contact us via email: PSUK@reducedlistening.co.uk. WhatsApp: 07514 644572 (UK) or + 44 7514 644572Audio credits:Paul PowleslandGood Morning Britain, ITVParliament.TVPhoto credits:Paul PowleslandVideo - Paul PowleslandPhotos - Tom GarnerVideo clip - Good Morning Britain, ITVVideo clip - Parliament.TV


Protest, Eurovision and Showgirls

Pod Save the UK is on a mission: to free the royals, and the country, from the madness of monarchy. Has King Charles’s coronation sent the UK into a frenzy of royal fervour, a bored stupor or a republican rage? Nish Kumar and Coco Khan work out how to ditch the Windsors and replace them with something better. Professor Amelia Hadfield, head of politics at Surrey University, has spotted some pitfalls for Pod Save the UK’s revolutionaries. Labour MP, Clive Lewis, joins the pod. His opinions on monarchy have got him into trouble with his own party. But who wants to be the killjoys spoiling everyone’s street party? Coco has a plan: rave for the republic.Pod Save the UK is a Reduced Listening production for Crooked Media. Audio clip credits:Policy ExchangeParliament TVLBCSky News Photo credits:Jenny LambertPoppy Murray 


Raving for a Republic

Chat Sh*t, Get Banged: the USA meets the UK

Pod Save the UK is your fresh weekly fix of UK political news, big ideas and a shot of inspiration. Comedian Nish Kumar and journalist Coco Khan find out what's going on, what's going wrong and how we can fix it. Produced in partnership between Reduced Listening and Crooked Media, the company behind Pod Save America. New episodes out Thursdays starting the 4th of May.


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