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Nov 17
39m 42s

EMQs: Is PMQs just 'political theatre'?

Persephonica
About this episode

What is the real purpose of Prime Minister's Questions? As an ‘infuriated’ listener asks why the Speaker can't force politicians to answer, George Osborne breaks down why PMQs is ‘political theatre’ and what most people misunderstand about it, while Ed Balls explains why David Lammy’s recent performance revealed the real procedural power the Speaker holds.


Then, prompted by a question from Shadow Cabinet minister Victoria Atkins, the pair break down when cross-party support actually works, and when it’s just a ‘bear trap’ for the opposition.


And, reporting from the COP summit in Brazil, the hosts of the Outrage & Optimism podcast ask why the UK failed to put money into the 'Tropical Forests Forever' facility, leading Ed and George to discuss the 'crumbled' political consensus on foreign aid.


Finally, the pair delve into the reality of rejoining the EU. Could the UK get the same deal as before? And what's the real obstacle to rejoining - could it be the Euro, the non-negotiable issue of free movement, or something else altogether?



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Credits:

Assistant Producer: Caillin McDaid

Senior Producer: Silvia Maresca

Video Editor: Maha Al-Badrawi

Executive Producer: Ellie Clifford


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