Are the Labour rebels “totally out of order”?

Summary

In this episode of the Electoral Dysfunction podcast, hosts Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson discuss the UK's political landscape, including the tour they are embarking on with special guests. They delve into the dynamics of Prime Minister's Questions, the challenges faced by the new government, and the impact of the US election with the withdrawal of President Biden and the endorsement of Kamala Harris. The conversation touches on gender dynamics in politics, the portrayal of political figures, and the importance of public perception.

The video is abnormal, and we are working hard to fix it.
Please replace the link and try again.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the 'Electoral Dysfunction' podcast tour?

The 'Electoral Dysfunction' podcast is going on tour to engage with the audience in person, featuring special guests and providing an opportunity for attendees to ask questions. The tour is coming to London, Sford, Liverpool, and Glasgow.

Who are the hosts of the 'Electoral Dysfunction' podcast?

The hosts of the 'Electoral Dysfunction' podcast are Beth Rigby and Ruth Davidson.

What is the significance of the new puppy 'Fergus' in the Davidson household?

Fergus, a half Irish Setter half standard pugal, is a new addition to the Davidson family. His arrival and interaction with the existing dog, Wilson, has been a recent topic of discussion, highlighting the personal side of the hosts.

What role has Harriet Harman taken on recently?

Harriet Harman has been put into the House of Lords as Baroness Harman of Peckham, following her appearance on the podcast when she was anticipating this transition.

What was the general sentiment towards Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's first PMQs?

Rishi Sunak's first Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) was considered calmer than usual, with most of his questions focusing on foreign policy. He was praised for his magnanimity and intelligent questioning, despite having lost the recent election.

What did the hosts discuss regarding the recent political events in the United States?

The hosts discussed the entry of Kamala Harris into the US presidential race, the change in dynamics following Joe Biden's withdrawal, and the potential impact of these events on the upcoming election.

What is the 'two child benefit cap' mentioned in the script?

The 'two child benefit cap' is a policy that has been a point of contention. Keir Starmer, during the election, stated he would only lift the cap when public finances allowed it. However, seven Labour MPs rebelled against the new government, voting to scrap the cap, leading to their whip being suspended for six months.

What challenges does Rachel Reeves face as the Chancellor of the Exchequer?

Rachel Reeves faces the challenge of managing the public finances, which are reportedly in a worse state than anticipated. She is expected to deliver a difficult budget while adhering to fiscal rules and avoiding tax increases on working people, which the party had ruled out during the election campaign.

What is the significance of the upcoming spending review by the Chancellor?

The spending review is significant as it will outline the government's financial plans, including how much money will be allocated to different departments. It is expected to be particularly challenging due to the state of the public finances and the restrictions on tax and spending policies.

What are the hosts' views on the importance of PMQs in the democratic process?

The hosts believe that PMQs is a crucial part of the democratic process, providing a platform for the Prime Minister to be held accountable and for the opposition to challenge the government. They highlight the uniqueness of the UK's parliamentary system in offering such spontaneity and accessibility.

What is the context behind the discussion about growth in the economy?

The discussion about growth in the economy is in the context of the new government's plans and the challenges they face in achieving it. Growth is seen as necessary to improve public finances through increased revenues, but the hosts acknowledge that it is not solely within the power of the government to create such growth.

What is the significance of the hair straighteners mentioned in the script?

The hair straighteners are a humorous aside, highlighting the importance of presentation for the hosts, especially for Beth Rigby, who had to manage her hair while on the road for the podcast tour. It also touches on the double standards for appearance between men and women in the public eye.