Afleveringen
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Why is it so difficult to reform Parliaments? In this episode, we talk to Greg Power, author of Inside the Political Mind: The Human Side of Politics and How it Shapes Development. Drawing on his experience as a special advisor to Commons Leaders Robin Cook and Peter Hain, as well as his work with parliaments worldwide, Greg explains how institutional culture, political incentives, and the personal interests of MPs often derail reform efforts.
With fascinating examples - from MPs in Ghana dealing with snakes in toilets to Bangladeshi politicians setting up credit unions - Greg reveals how parliamentarians navigate their roles and why constituency work, though vital, is often disconnected from policy-making. He argues that MPsā casework could be an invaluable early-warning system for governments - if only there were a way to systematically harness it.
Greg also discusses how new MPs are like learner drivers - thrown into Westminster without a clear guide on how things really work. With over 50% of MPs in the current Parliament being newly elected, many are still figuring out the informal norms and unwritten rules that govern the institution. While this level of turnover presents challenges, it also offers a rare opportunity to reshape how Parliament functions - if only those in power are willing to seize it.
The conversation also touches on populism and how public expectations are often at their highest when institutions are at their weakest. History shows that populist movements thrive when traditional systems fail to deliver, but once in power, they often struggle to govern effectively. Whether in Bangladesh, the USA or the UK, the lesson is clear: ignoring democratic structures in favour of quick fixes is a recipe for long-term instability.
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Presenters: Mark D'Arcy and Ruth Fox
Producer: Richard Townsend
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In this fourth instalment of our special mini-podcast series, we take you inside the Public Bill Committee as it scrutinises the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill - a landmark proposal seeking to legalise assisted dying. The Committee is in full swing, debating amendments, and tensions are running high. We sit down with Sarah Olney MP, a key player in the discussions, to unpack the latest developments.
Sarah shares insights into her proposed amendments, the growing frustration with the legislative process, and concerns over the role of Ministers when the Government says it is neutral.
The atmosphere in the Committee has taken a combative turn, with MPs digging in on both sides of the debate. As the bill progresses slowly, controversy is brewing over judicial oversight, particularly a proposal to replace High Court judges with an expert panel - an amendment that could significantly sway support for the bill.
Olney also discusses her push for a new "test of ability" rather than "test of capacity," aiming to better safeguard vulnerable individuals. Meanwhile, questions are mounting about whether the Private Members' Bill process is the right mechanism for handling such a complex legal and ethical issue.
With so much still undecided and political divisions deepening, the bill's future hangs in the balance. Is this process up to the task, or is it exposing fundamental flaws in how Parliament legislates and its capacity to make law in this area?
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Presenters: Mark D'Arcy and Ruth Fox
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode we dissect the fallout from Labourās WhatsApp purge following the Andrew Gwynne affair and what it means for political communication at Westminster. We also explore the latest news from the House of Commons Modernisation Committee, discussing its focus on improving accessibility to Parliament, legislative scrutiny, and the debate over MPs holding second jobs.
First, we examine Labourās swift response to a controversial WhatsApp group where MPs and councillors shared offensive remarks about colleagues, constituents, and even the late Queen. Keir Starmer wasted no time, suspending multiple party members in a move that has sent shockwaves through Westminster. Mark explores how WhatsApp has become a vital yet risky tool in modern politics and how this scandal could set a precedent for future digital leaks. As MPs rush to delete old messages, we ask: is this just the beginning of a new era of political exposĆ©s?
Next, we turn to parliamentary reform. The newly established Modernisation Committee has set out its priority strands of work: improving accessibility to Parliament, making Commons time more effective, and giving MPs greater certainty about the parliamentary schedule. But what will these reforms actually look like? And where does the overhaul of the legislative process fit into the picture?
Finally, we tackle the ongoing debate over MPs holding second jobs. Should parliamentarians be allowed to take on paid work outside Westminster? While some argue that experience in law, medicine, or business enriches political debate, others believe outside roles dilute MPsā commitment to their constituents. The controversy surrounding high-profile MPs hosting TV shows - particularly on GB News - raises fresh questions about which types of second jobs should be restricted. Should media roles face tighter controls than other professions? And could stricter rules unintentionally discourage professionals from entering politics?
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The assisted dying bill is about to undergo detailed scrutiny by the Public Bill Committee - a group of 23 MPs tasked with reviewing the Billās text and proposing amendments to refine and improve it. But what exactly happens during this amendment process? Former House of Commons Clerk, Paul Evans CBE, breaks it down. Plus, we hear from Dr Ben Spencer MP, a former consultant psychiatrist turned parliamentarian, who has proposed dozens of amendments to the Bill.
This week, Ruth is joined by procedural expert Paul Evans to break down the role and purpose of a Public Bill Committee. They explore how amendments are proposed, the rules that determine which amendments are admissible, and the grouping and selection of amendments for debate and decision. Paul explains the pivotal role played by the Committee chair in making fine procedural and political judgements and the mechanisms like āclosureā motions that keep the process moving and guard against filibustering.
What is the Governmentās role in this process. While officially neutral, Ministers have a āduty to the statute book'. So, will they step in to propose amendments, or will that responsibility fall to the Billās sponsor, Kim Leadbeater MP? Plus, we explore the tactical side of law making: is it smarter to push amendments now, or save them for the next stage when the Bill returns to the full Commons for the Report stage?
We also sit down with Dr Ben Spencer MP, the Conservative MP for Runnymede and Weybridge. He voted against the Bill at Second Reading and discusses why he thinks the Private Membersā Bill process is not the right route for this complex legislation. Despite his opposition to the Bill, and although heās not a member of the Public Bill Committee, he has nonetheless tabled several dozen amendments. One of his key proposals? The creation of a new body ā the Assisted Dying Agency ā to oversee the process. He shares why heās pursuing these amendments, how heās crafting them, and how he hopes to influence the Billās progress from outside the Committee room.
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In this special episode we have an exclusive conversation with Dame Elizabeth Gardiner, the former head of the governmentās Parliamentary Counsel Office, who drafted the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. This is a rare insight into the legislative process from the very person who crafted the bill that MPs are now scrutinising.
Dame Elizabeth reveals how she was approached to draft the bill on a pro bono basis, the legal challenges she navigated, and how she worked closely with the Billās sponsor, Kim Leadbeater MP, to shape the legislation. She offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the drafting process, explaining how existing laws, international precedents, and parliamentary constraints influenced her approach.
Mark and Ruth also dissect the key takeaways from this week's Public Bill Committee evidence sessions, including concerns over medical safeguards, judicial oversight, and the role of government in shaping the final legislation. With over 147 amendments already tabled, the bill faces intense scrutiny in the coming weeks.
Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the future of assisted dying law in the UK, the political dynamics at play, and what comes next in this historic parliamentary process.
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The Government is now taking difficult decisions on everything from social security to a third runway at Heathrow which could cause splits in their own ranks. But why are MPs not paying more attention to the mechanisms the House of Commons has established to control the social security budget and repeal or reform old EU laws? And the House of Lords provides good news for Sir Paul McCartney but bad news for ticket touting by āposh peopleā at the Royal Albert Hall.
This week we discuss the governmentās big challenges ā from Heathrowās third runway to social security spending and the implications for parliamentary politics.
Infrastructure battles ahead: Rachel Reeves announces a third runway at Heathrow, but MPs opposed to the plan may use opposition day debates, e-petitions, and backbench motions to force votes. How will the government manage dissent within its own ranks?
Scrutiny shortcomings: Despite the welfare cap being breached by Ā£8.5 billion, only a handful of MPs engaged in the debate. The growing social security budget raises long-term questions about fiscal sustainability and parliamentary oversight.
House of Lords vs. AI companies: Peers vote against the government to protect creative copyrights from AI exploitation, with backing from figures like Paul McCartney. The government now faces pressure to clarify its stance.
āTicket touting for posh peopleā at the Royal Albert Hall: In a rare move ā not seen since the 1990s - Peers have voted to amend a Private Bill against the wishes of the Billās sponsor, the Royal Albert Hall board of trustees.
Retained EU Law: Still a mystery: Ministers continue to unearth new pieces of retained EU law, but Parliament remains disengaged. Could a future reset of UK-EU relations reignite interest in these legal changes?
Speaker Lindsay Hoyleās TV cameo: The Speaker of the House has appeared in an episode of Emmerdale, continuing the long tradition of political figures making pop culture appearances.
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This week we highlight Alexis Jayās damning verdict on the Conservative governmentās lackluster response to child abuse inquiry recommendations and the first major test of Northern Irelandās āStormont Brakeā under the Windsor Framework. Plus, we take a look at the Armed Forces Commissioner Bill and how it measures up to its German counterpart.
Child abuse inquiry fallout: Professor Alexis Jay, chair of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse pulled no punches in her evidence to the Home Affairs Select Committee, criticising the Conservatives for inaction while in power. We unpack her appeal to MPs to stop treating the issue as a political football and discuss what difference select committees can make in situations like this.
Northern Irelandās Stormont Brake: Unionist members of the Assembly triggered the ādemocratic safeguardā to give Stormontās politicians a say before new EU chemical regulations take effect in Northern Ireland. But Hilary Benn has concluded the provisions do not meet the threshold to invoke emergency arrangements. What does this mean for the UK-EU dynamic and parliamentary politics at Westminster and in Belfast?
Armed Forces Commissioner Bill: We take a deep dive into the Governmentās plan for a new welfare watchdog for service personnel and familiesāhow does it compare to Germanyās powerful parliamentary commissioner?
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In this first "mini pod" of a series exploring one of the most controversial bills currently before Parliament ā the proposed legislation to legalise assisted dying ā Ruth Fox and Mark DāArcy delve into the heated debates surrounding the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. This Private Memberās Bill has already ignited passionate discussions during its first Public Bill Committee sitting.
Ruth shares her first-hand account of attending the Committeeās initial meeting, where disagreements over procedural matters ā such as whether to hold private discussions about witness lists and sitting times ā set a combative tone for what promises to be a challenging legislative journey.
Together, Mark and Ruth unpack the unique hurdles faced by this Private Memberās Bill. Unlike government-sponsored legislation, it lacks co-ordination by party Whips, leaving MPs to navigate disputes independently. One major point of contention? The selection of witnesses, which has sparked accusations of bias. From the Royal College of Psychiatrists to international experts, the process of choosing who gets to testify has become a lightning rod for criticism.
Adding to the intrigue, the Government claims it is āneutralā on the issue, leaving it to Parliament to decide. But how neutral is it really? Ministers on the Public Bill Committee participated in a key division, raising questions about their impartiality. And by tabling a money motion to fund the Billās implementation ā despite uncertainty over the potential costs ā have Ministers signed a blank cheque? And when will MPs and the public see an Impact Assessment?
With emotions running high, this debate ā focused on profound life-and-death decisions ā is set to dominate parliamentary discourse in the weeks ahead. Join us as we navigate the complexities of this contentious and deeply personal piece of legislation.
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With the Government still under pressure to set up an independent inquiry into child grooming gangs should Parliament have a role in setting up inquiries into state failures and national disasters? Currently, Ministers take crucial decisions about who should chair an inquiry and what its precise remit should be. But a House of Lords Committee last year proposed giving Parliament a greater say and adopting a more systematic approach to implementing inquiry recommendations.
Next week, Ministers will move the money resolution for the Assisted Dying Bill. This crucial procedural step will pave the way for the Billās next stage in a Public Bill Committee. Will Ministers face tough questions about how much they expect the proposed assisted dying system to cost during the 45-minute debate?
In other news, thereās been a spectacular promotion for former policy wonk and government adviser Torsten Bell, in the wake of the resignation of Treasury Minister Tulip Siddiq. Only elected last July, heās just been made Pensions Minister, but will he be haunted by his many pronouncements as a talking head at Commons select committees and in media panel discussions?
Finally, is there still a place in the Commons for Masterpiece Theatre-style pyrotechnics? After Shadow-Chancellor Mel Strideās attempt to shame Rachel Reeves with some Shakespearean rhetoric bombed in the chamber, Ruth and Mark reflect on whether parliamentary theatricals are now obsolete.
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This week, we examine how Elon Muskās tweets have steered the UK parliamentary agenda in the first sitting days of the New Year. From a viral petition demanding a general election, to intense debates on child sexual exploitation and grooming gangs, Muskās influence has left its mark on this weekās key political discussions. Ruth and Mark also unpack the rise of identical parliamentary questions and share their plans to cover the Assisted Dying Billās next stages later this month.
Elon Muskās tweets are more than just clickbait - they are actively driving UK politics. Ruth and Mark explore three major Commons events this week that were all amplified by Muskās controversial social media posts: a petition signed by three million people calling for a general election, debates on grooming gangs, and controversies surrounding the Childrenās Wellbeing and Schools Bill. Muskās online influence has placed these issues at the forefront of political discourse, but his incendiary comments have also raised serious concerns about misinformation, online abuse, harassment and MP safety.
In this episode, Ruth and Mark break down the strategies and tensions behind the parliamentary debates. They highlight how political positioning on the Childrenās Bill overshadowed critical discussions on education reform. Muskās online dominance and abuse has also escalated security risks for MPs like Jess Phillips, who faces intensified threats after his vituperative personal attacks.
We unpack the politics behind the parliamentary decisions, look at the challenges of effective political communication, and preview how the issues may play out in the weeks ahead. We close with a look at the latest parliamentary trend: the orchestrated surge of identical questions by whips aiming to amplify government messaging. From project management jargon to strategic question crafting, this episode sheds light on the mechanics of Westminster.
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In our latest āWhipping Yarnā we sit down with Steve Baker, whose reputation as the "Hard Man of Brexit" made him a key figure in the UKās departure from the EU.
Baker reflects on his pivotal role as the "Rebel Commander" in orchestrating rebellions during the Brexit years, his methods of leadership, and the toll politics has taken on his mental health. The episode offers an unfiltered look into the mechanisms of political rebellion, party dynamics, and the personal costs of parliamentary life.
Baker recounts his journey from a newcomer to Parliament to a commanding figure in the Brexit movement, detailing how he leveraged personal conviction and strategic organisation to challenge successive Prime Ministers and government whips.
He candidly discusses the emotional and mental toll of his role, sharing moments of intense pressure and his eventual mental health struggles.
Baker offers an insiderās view of parliamentary rebellion, revealing how he employed technology, unwavering resolve, and personal connections to mobilise support. He contrasts his approach with traditional methods, emphasising leadership through shared goals rather than coercion.
The episode also explores the Conservative Partyās ideological fractures, the influence of the House of Commons Backbench Business Committee, and the broader implications of Brexit for British democracy.
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In this episode we explore the experiences of the SNP during its transformative rise at Westminster from 2015, as seen through the eyes of Patrick Grady MP who served as the partyās Chief Whip between 2017 and 2021. Patrick shares insights on the challenges, tactics, and controversies faced by the SNP as they sought to amplify Scotlandās voice in Parliament while navigating the complexities of being a third-party force with a mission for independence.
From six to 56: A political earthquake
Patrick recounts the seismic shift in 2015, when the SNP surged from six MPs to 56, reshaping Scotlandās presence at Westminster. He describes the cultural adjustments required as the party transitioned to its expanded role and new responsibilities as the third party and sought to master Westminsterās traditions and procedures while asserting their identity in a political system designed for two-party dominance. Along the way, creative tactics like the "breakfast wars" and spontaneous acts of defiance helped carve out their space.
Blending experience with fresh energy
The SNPās parliamentary team was a mix of seasoned hands and new talent, bringing diverse professional backgrounds to the table. Patrick reflects on the complexities of maintaining party discipline in such a dynamic environment while managing the inevitable evolution of internal dynamics over time.
Theatrics with a purpose
From walking out of Prime Ministerās Questions in protest to whistling Ode to Joy during Brexit votes, Patrick sheds light on the purpose behind the SNPās theatrical moments. These acts were not mere stunts but initiatives that helped draw attention to critical issues for Scotland, such as the contentious Internal Market Act and the English Votes for English Laws (EVEL) procedures.
The human side of whipping
Beyond the public stage, Patrick shares insights into the pastoral care aspect of a Chief Whipās responsibilities. Supporting MPs with diverse personal and professional needs - especially those with young families - required empathy and flexibility, even as legislative demands loomed large.
Reflections on a remarkable journey
Having stepped down from Westminster, Patrick reflects on the impermanence of being an MP, his pride in representing Glasgow North, and the unpredictable challenges that shaped his tenure, from Brexit to the pandemic. His practical advice to his successors? Donāt forget a water filter jug to tackle Londonās hard water ā a small but vital tip for life in the capital.
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Presenters: Mark D'Arcy and Ruth Fox
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In this episode we explore the highs and lows of coalition government through the eyes of Alistair Carmichael, former Deputy Government Chief Whip for the Liberal Democrats during the 2010-2015 coalition. Carmichael reflects candidly on how he personally navigated the seismic challenges of coalition politics, from managing party discipline to reconciling conflicting priorities within the government to providing pastoral support to colleagues.
Alistair Carmichael offers a fascinating account of the inner workings of the coalition government, discussing the monumental challenges faced during his time as Deputy Chief Whip in the coalition government. Reflecting on the dynamic interplay between national, party, and constituency interests, he describes the delicate balance required to maintain stability during a period of economic crisis. The conversation sheds light on the nuanced strategies he employed to hold his party together, including persuading MPs to support controversial policies like the rise in tuition fees, and how he worked to maintain cohesion within a fractious parliamentary party.
He shares vivid memories of key moments in the coalition, including the volcanic ash cloud that disrupted his campaign and the EU budget veto that nearly shattered government unity. He also discusses the pastoral side of his role, describing how he supported MPs through personal and professional crises, even as he juggled the unique challenges of representing one of the UKās most remote constituencies. His reflections highlight the personal toll of coalition politics but also affirm his belief in the value of entering government to make a meaningful difference
The episode concludes with Carmichaelās thoughts on the legacy of the coalition and lessons for future Liberal Democrats.
[NOTE: This is the first in a series of conversations with former Whips, some of which took place just as the UK general election was called in Summer 2024. There may be the occasional reference to the forthcoming election - we have not edited these out in order to retain the context of the discussion and questions.]
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In this special episode of Parliament Matters, we sit down with author and researcher Sam Freedman to explore the themes of his book, Failed State. Freedman delivers a sharp critique of Britainās governance, examining how bad laws and weak parliamentary scrutiny are contributing to systemic dysfunction.
We discuss:
Parliamentary scrutiny in crisis: Freedman highlights the erosion of Parliament's role in scrutinising legislation, forcing the unelected House of Lords and even the courts to fill the gap, creating further constitutional tensions.From part-time MPs to professional politicians: How Parliament's evolution has failed to keep pace with its membersā changing roles, leaving many MPs frustrated and directionless.Poor legislationās ripple effects: Freedman discusses how the lack of oversight has led to flawed laws and policies, citing examples from his time in government, such as the rushed Academies Act.Decentralisation as a solution: Freedman makes the case for empowering regional and local authorities to address over-centralisation and strengthen governance.This engaging conversation covers Parliament's structural flaws, the realities of modern political life, and bold reform ideasāexploring how fixing the core of our democracy could lead to better outcomes for everyone.
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As Christmas approaches, Westminster eases into its pre-festive lull. Yet, a major political storm clouds the yearās end: the fallout from the Governmentās decision not to compensate the WASPI women. This controversy highlights a recurring dilemma in politicsāthe risks of opposition parties over-promising and the inevitable backlash when those promises confront the harsh realities of governing. And as a seasonal stocking filler, Ruth and Mark talk to the authors of two fascinating books that uncover hidden aspects of parliamentary history.
Labourās decision not to offer compensation to the WASPI women (Women Against State Pension Inequality) who have lost out in the equalisation of the state pension age has ignited a political storm. Any number of Labour MPs are now haunted by the pledges of support they gave to the WASPI campaign ā but beyond their embarrassment, every instance of a party reneging on its pre-election promises corrodes what is left of trust in politics.
The case also raises questions about the role of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), the gatekeeper role MPs play in referring cases to the Ombudsman and the need for legislation to upgrade the Ombudsman system. Successive governments have said there has not been enough parliamentary time for a bill: but is that a valid reason or just an excuse?
Meanwhile, a brace of parliamentary committees have made a surprise choice of Chair: does it signal a new rebellious mood, or simply a lack of experience in the ranks?
For a seasonal treat Ruth and Mark talk to the authors of two captivating books that shed light on overlooked corners of parliamentary history. In Necessary Women, Mari Takayanagi explores the hidden contributions of women in Westminster ā from housemaids and secretaries to pioneering clerks. Meanwhile, John Cooperās The Lost Chapel of Westminster reveals the captivating story of St Stephenās Chapel, a remarkable space transformed into the House of Commons chamber after the Reformation. This repurposing left an enduring legacy on British parliamentary politics, shaping traditions like opposing benches and in-person voting ā practices that continue to define Westminsterās political culture today.
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Presenters: Mark D'Arcy and Ruth Fox
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In this weekās episode the āassisted dyingā bill takes centre stage as the newly chosen members of the Public Bill Committee gear up for detailed scrutiny of the legislation. With 23 members, including two ministers, this committee promises a mix of seasoned voices and first-time MPs debating a very difficult issue. Our guest, Matthew England from the Hansard Society, breaks down the committeeās composition, party balance, and the strategic dynamics that will influence the billās trajectory.
The podcast also explores the ongoing debate over hereditary peers in the House of Lords. Ruth and Mark dissect the Second Reading of the bill to abolish their voting rights, highlighting the passionate arguments on both sides. From constitutional principles to fiery rhetoric about political assassinations, the debate reveals deeper tensions about the future of Lords reform.
Meanwhile, the Intelligence and Security Committee is back, with a new lineup tasked with overseeing Britainās intelligence services. We discuss the significance of this committeeās work in ensuring transparency and accountability in the shadowy world of national security.
Finally, the Liaison Committee prepares for its first grilling of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. What themes will emerge, and can select committee chairs hold the PM to account effectively? Ruth and Mark consider the challenges of this high-profile session.
Join us for sharp analysis and behind-the-scenes insights into the workings of Parliament. Donāt forget to subscribe, rate, and review on your favorite podcast platform.
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Is the Football Governance Bill being filibustered in the House of Lords? Did the House of Commons just vote for electoral reform and proportional representation as the Liberal Democrats claim? And what are your fantasy parliamentary reforms? Welcome to a landmark episode of Parliament Matters, where weāve stepped out of the studio and into the heart of Westminster. For the first time, weāre recording in front of a live audience at the 60th anniversary conference of the Study of the Parliament Group - a gathering of parliamentary aficionados, practitioners, and self-described anoraks. Joining us is former Commons Clerk Paul Evans, whose deep procedural expertise adds extra depth to the dayās discussions.
We kick off with the Football Governance Bill, born from the Tracy Crouch fan-led review, which sought to safeguard the English football pyramidās financial stability after crises like the European Super League debacle. Now in the House of Lords, the Bill faces delays and accusations of filibustering.
Ruth explains the key issues, including definitions of āsustainabilityā and āEnglish football,ā which are left to ministerial regulation rather than the face of the Bill - much to the frustration of opposition peers. Paul unpacks the concept of hybridity, a procedural pitfall that could derail the bill, and we learn how this relates to broader debates about parliamentary process and regulatory overreach.
Next, we turn to a rare parliamentary moment: a 10-Minute Rule Bill introduced by Lib Dem MP Sarah Olney proposed proportional representation for elections. Unusually the right to bring in the bill was put to a formal vote this week. However, the billās chances of progression are slim, as itās been relegated to the ālegislative gulagā of backbench bills unlikely to see further debate.
With the newly established House of Commons Modernisation Committee inviting ideas for its agenda, we discuss our own āfantasyā parliamentary reforms. Paul pitches his bold āFestival of the Estimates,ā an initiative to engage MPs and the public in substantive discussions about taxation, public spending and the trade-offs involved.
We then turn to our audience for a Q&A session on topics including whether we should have an āinvestiture voteā for new Prime Ministers, let experts rather than MPs question the Government on its Budget, give Select Committees more powers and restore the Fixed-Term Parliaments Act.
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Parliament Matters is a Hansard Society production supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust.
Presenters: Mark D'Arcy and Ruth Fox
Producer: Richard Townsend
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this special episode, we dive into the fascinating world of US congressional procedure with Hansard Society member Kacper Surdy, the once-anonymous force behind the influential social media account @ringwiss. Despite being a 20-year-old Durham University student, Kacper has become a go-to authority on Capitol Hillās intricate rules, earning the admiration of seasoned political insiders. With Donald Trump hinting at bypassing Senate norms to appoint controversial figures to his cabinet, Kacper unravels the high stakes procedural battles shaping Washington.
Ruth and Mark sat down with Kacper to explore the remarkable story of how a British student became a trusted commentator on US congressional workingsāall without setting foot in Washington, DC. Kacper reveals how his fascination with the 2020 presidential election led him to explore and master the inner workings of the House and Senate. From maintaining a hobbyistās passion for procedural rabbit holes to fielding inquiries from Capitol Hill insiders, Kacper reflects on his future plans for this unexpected, niche expertise.
He explains the key differences and historical connections between British parliamentary traditions and US congressional rules, offering insights into the Houseās meticulous documentation of precedents versus the Senateās more informal approach. He also explores the potential impact of recess appointments on the balance of power in Washington, decoding the controversial practice that Trump has hinted at using to bypass Senate scrutiny, its historical origins and why itās a constitutional flashpoint today.
NOTE: This episode was recorded just before Matt Gaetz, Trumpās nominee to be Attorney General, announced he was withdrawing from the post. Weāve left the discussion about this in the recording because it may be relevant to consideration of other nominations in the future.
š Learn more using our resources for the issues mentioned in this episode.
ā Send us your questions about Parliament:
ā Subscribe to our newsletter.
ļæ½ļæ½ Follow us across social media @HansardSociety / @hansardsociety.bsky.social
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Parliament Matters is a Hansard Society production supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust.
Producer: Richard Townsend
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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From the emotional weight of the Assisted Dying Billās historic Second Reading to the first Cabinet resignation under Keir Starmerās leadership, this has been a whirlwind week of high-stakes drama and political intrigue in Westminster. Nearly three million people have signed a parliamentary e-petition calling for another general election and itās been a week of party defections and divisions. We unpack what it all means for the future of this Parliament.
This week saw MPs engage in a solemn and respectful debate over landmark legislation. The Assisted Dying Bill cleared its Second Reading with a decisive majority of 55 votes, but the solemn silence that greeted the announcement of the result in the House of Commons reflected the gravity of the decision. There is still a long way to go if the Assisted Dying Bill is to make it to the statute book, but it cleared this first hurdle. So, what happens now as it moves into the Public Bill Committee?
Meanwhile, a petition calling for a general election has amassed nearly three million signatures. It has sparked a debate and perhaps tells us something about public discontent with the current Government after just six months. But it has also revealed the constitutional illiteracy of some of our politicians and the commentariat. Despite its size, this petition holds no legal weight, though it will trigger a House of Commons debate in January having crossed the 100,000 signature threshold. What approach will the Government take?
In other news, Sir Keir Starmerās Cabinet saw its first resignation this week as Transport Secretary Louise Haigh stepped down. The move came after a past offenceādeclared to Starmer before her appointmentāresurfaced. We unpack the implications for the Governmentās ethics bar: has it been set too low, or is this the high standard needed to rebuild public trust in politicians and Parliament?
š Learn more using our resources for the issues mentioned in this episode.
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Parliament Matters is a Hansard Society production supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust.
Producer: Richard Townsend
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Itās Parliament Week, and Ruth and Mark are joined by researchers Cristina Leston-Bandeira and Richard Huzzey to celebrate an unsung hero of Westminster: the petitioning system. Once on the verge of irrelevance, this mechanism has seen record levels of public engagement, sparking debates and inquiries on an avalanche of citizen-driven issues. Together, they explore how petitioning adds value for both petitioners and MPs, and what has driven this surprising revival of a centuries-old tradition in the digital age.
As the news of the death of Tony Blairās Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, reaches us, Ruth and Mark reflect on his unique place in British politics. Prescott was more than a brawler; he was a symbol of working-class pride in a political landscape increasingly dominated by career politicians from privileged backgrounds. With the decline of working-class representation in the House of Commons, they ask: could Angela Rayner, the current Deputy Prime Minister, step into Prescottās shoes? Can she wield the same influence within Sir Keir Starmerās government and hold Labourās coalition together as Prescott once did?
With the select committee system kicking into gear - launching inquiries and grilling cabinet ministers - Ruth and Mark explore whether this quieter venue could outperform the raucous Commons Chamber in scrutinising the Government. In a Parliament where Labourās dominance looms large, how might committees leverage their tools to ensure Ministers are held to account, especially when their reports are ignored, or responses fall short?
From nostalgia for a working-class titan to the mechanics of modern parliamentary accountability, Ruth and Mark delve into the past, present, and future of how Westminster engages with the people it serves.
š Learn more using our resources for the issues mentioned in this episode.
ā Send us your questions about Parliament:
ā Subscribe to our newsletter.
ļæ½ļæ½ Follow us across social media @HansardSociety
Ā£ - Support the Hansard Society and this podcast by making a donation today.
Parliament Matters is a Hansard Society production supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust.
Producer: Richard Townsend
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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