About this episode

The episode discusses the political implications of Ann Widdecombe's killing and the future of British politics with a focus on Andy Burnham's upcoming premiership.

The shocking killing of Ann Widdecombe has set a sombre tone in British politics in the last week. Ed Balls and George Osborne delve into the political implications of this tragedy, examining the changing police messaging and debating what the solution for protecting politicians should be. They also share memories of Widdecombe, who they both worked with throughout the years.  ‘The King of North’ (Andy Burnham) is set to enter Downing Street on Monday, after receiving  the backing of over 90% of Labour MPs. But what is he going to do? The unknowns of the incoming Burnham premiership has resulted in breathless speculation hitting a fever pitch. George argues Burnham is focusing too much on the past in his messaging and must look to the future, while Ed cautions that Burnham should not assume he will be popular in the country off the bat.   As Keir Starmer’s time in No. 10 comes to an end, and Rachel Reeves time in No. 11 is likely to follow suit, the pair reflect on their political legacies and obituaries. They deliver a harsh sentence on their reigns, explaining why they were stuck in a doom loop the last two years, and how it speaks to wider problems in…

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