About this episode

The episode discusses the challenges of political apologies and explores various proposals for youth policies and devolution in the UK.

This week, Ed Balls and George Osborne hear from a current and former Member of Parliament. Former Tory minister Greg Clark asks if Andy Burnham’s pledge for ‘devolution in every postcode’ is attainable, while Starmer loyalist John Slinger puts forward his proposals for a ‘youth triple lock’ to improve prospects for young people in the UK. Should there be guarantees on above-inflation maintenance loans and free bus travel? And should there be youth advisors in all government departments? Ed and George praise the initiative behind the idea. The pair also hear from a London cyclist frustrated by a council's ban on Lime bikes, the question is: has some devolution given away too much control? George recalls his approaches to devolution during the coalition government, while Ed evaluates the regulation of e-bike rentals. And lastly, Ed and George explain why politicians resist apologising - citing Nick Clegg’s now infamous apology on student loans as an example. Can senior politicians ever recover from apologising about a decision they have made? We love hearing from you, so please don’t forget to send all your EMQs to questions@politicalcurrency and make sure to include a voice note…

More episodes of Political Currency

• How Ann Widdecombe’s killing has reshaped British politics · July 16, 2026 · 1h 4m
• EMQs: Why no one will end the triple lock · July 12, 2026 · 42 min
• Is Reform unravelling? · July 9, 2026 · 1h 6m
• EMQs: Are holiday taxes a threat to tourism? · July 5, 2026 · 42 min
• The two major challenges facing Andy Burnham · July 2, 2026 · 1h 3m
• EMQs: The reshuffle dilemma facing Andy Burnham · June 28, 2026 · 40 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Political Currency podcast page.