Best Bench Report PUK Podcasts (2025)

1
UK Farm Animal Welfare: Cages, Imports, and the Path Forward 13:19

3d ago13:19

13:19

This episode explores a UK parliamentary debate on animal welfare in farming. Key themes include ending the use of cages and crates for farmed animals, like enriched cages for hens and farrowing crates for sows. Speakers highlight concerns about low-welfare imports undermining UK farmers and standards, calling for mandatory animal welfare labelling…

1
UK Grocery Fairness: Can the Adjudicator Fix the Food Chain? 11:22

4d ago11:22

11:22

Today we explore the role and limitations of the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA), which oversees fair trading between large UK supermarkets and their direct suppliers. Despite being intended to protect producers and consumers, many argue its remit is too narrow, covering only the largest retailers and often missing primary producers further down t…

1
Saving Your Local Pub: Community Power & Funding Explained 8:30

5d ago8:30

8:30

Discover why local pubs are vital community hubs, providing jobs, supporting local businesses, and boosting social connection. Learn about the financial challenges pubs face, like rising costs and taxes, leading to many closures. This episode explores how communities are stepping up to save beloved pubs, often aiming for community ownership. We dis…

1
Stopping Banking Fraud: Understanding Scams and the Fight Against Them in the UK 8:58

6d ago8:58

8:58

This episode explores the significant issue of banking fraud in the UK. We'll cover the two main types: unauthorised fraud, where criminals make payments without permission, and authorised push payment (APP) fraud, where victims are tricked into sending money themselves. Learn about the scale of losses – £1.2 billion stolen in 2023. We'll discuss h…

1
The Future of UK Public Libraries: Challenges & Strategies 7:37

9d ago7:37

7:37

UK MPs recently debated the future of public libraries, highlighting their vital role as community hubs providing books, digital access, study spaces, and support. Despite facing real-terms cuts since 2010, leading to closures and reduced hours, libraries continue to deliver immense educational, economic, and social value. Speakers stressed the nee…

1
Local Government: Accountability and Oversight 7:14

10d ago7:14

7:14

Our fourth and final episode on local government discovers how local government in England is held accountable. Councils answer to both their local voters and the central government. They are financially independent with their own assets and ability to borrow. Central oversight comes through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities …

1
Local Government: Finances 8:10

11d ago8:10

8:10

Understanding local council money in England is complex. Councils primarily get funds from four sources: Council Tax from residents, Business Rates from companies (partially retained locally), Central Government Grants, and Local Fees and Charges for services. Most of these funds aren't 'ring-fenced', giving councils spending flexibility. The Local…

1
Local Government: Elections and Boundaries 8:23

12d ago8:23

8:23

Part 2 of how local government works in England, focusing on elections and the changing structure of councils. We'll explore the First Past the Post electoral system used in wards, how boundaries are set by the LGBCE, and different election cycles like electing "by thirds". Discover the ongoing trend towards creating unitary authorities and merging…

1
Local Government: Structure & Evolution 7:52

13d ago7:52

7:52

Part 1 of our series on Local Government explores structure and evolution. Learn about the two-tier system (county and district councils) and the shift towards unitary authorities that handle all local functions. We'll cover the current setup of 317 main councils, plus other important bodies like parish councils and combined authorities. Discover h…

1
Understanding UK Parking Rules: Fines, Private Land, and Devolved Policies 33:49

16d ago33:49

33:49

Navigating parking in the UK can be complex due to devolved policy, meaning rules differ across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This episode breaks down key aspects, from council-controlled parking and penalty charges to rules on private land enforced by private parking companies. We cover topics like DVLA data sharing, scams, grace…

1
Northumberland & Newcastle School Buildings: Safety, Funding, and Student Futures 6:59

17d ago6:59

6:59

This episode explores a parliamentary debate on the state of school buildings in Northumberland and Newcastle. The discussion highlights concerns about crumbling infrastructure, like the closure of Prudhoe community high school due to structural cracks just nine years after being built. MPs also raise issues like mouldy toilets and inadequate inves…

1
Understanding Asthma in the UK: Care, Costs, and Calls for Change 6:51

18d ago6:51

6:51

This episode explores a UK parliamentary debate on World Asthma Day, highlighting the significant impact of asthma across the nation. We explore key statistics: 7.2 million people live with asthma, and tragically, four people die from it daily. Many deaths are preventable, linked to unequal access to care and socioeconomic factors. The debate cover…

1
The Future of British Film and Television: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities 9:18

19d ago9:18

9:18

This episode explores the state of the British film and high-end television (HETV) industries based on recent analysis. We look at how big international investments drive growth but also the struggles faced by independent UK films trying to tell British stories. We discuss challenges like funding gaps, skills shortages, and protecting creative idea…

1
Student Mental Health in England: Navigating Support & Duty of Care 10:34

20d ago10:34

10:34

This episode explores the growing issue of student mental health in English universities. We look at how many students are affected, what factors contribute to poor mental health, and the debate around whether universities have a legal "duty of care" to their students. We discuss key court cases like Abrahart v University of Bristol and existing le…

1
UK Parliament: All-Party Parliamentary Groups 9:22

23d ago9:22

9:22

This episode looks at All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs). These are informal, cross-party groups in the UK Parliament, focused on specific topics or countries. Although not official parliamentary bodies, they have faced concerns regarding governance and potential improper access or influence, particularly from lobbyists, commercial entities, or…

1
UK Parliament: How Bills Get Carried Over Between Sessions 7:30

24d ago7:30

7:30

This episode explores bill carry-over in the UK Parliament, a procedure that allows public bills to continue their progress from one parliamentary session to the next instead of falling at the end of a session. Initially suggested by the Modernisation Committee in 1997 to reduce legislative workload fluctuations and improve scrutiny, carry-over aim…

1
UK Parliament: Directly-Elected Mayors in England and Wales 8:36

25d ago8:36

8:36

Our topic this episode discusses directly-elected mayors in England and Wales, a system introduced by the Local Government Act 2000. There are three main ways local authorities can be run: mayor and cabinet, leader and cabinet, or the committee system. Discover how mayors are introduced, either by referendum or council resolution, and why most refe…

1
UK Parliament: Select Committees - The Evolution of Core Tasks 6:26

26d ago6:26

6:26

This episode looks at how the essential jobs, or "core tasks," of UK House of Commons select committees have changed over time. First set in 2002 to make committee work more organised and accountable, these tasks were updated in 2012 to match growing demands and add new areas like "Strategy" and "Public Engagement". More recent proposals, like in 2…

1
UK Lobbying: Regulation, Scandals, and the Push for Transparency 9:48

27d ago9:48

9:48

This episode looks at the world of lobbying in UK politics, exploring its definition, perceived benefits and drawbacks. We discuss the existing regulatory framework, primarily the Transparency of Lobbying Act 2014, which focuses on consultant lobbyists. Drawing on scrutiny and academic analysis, we highlight key criticisms of the Act, such as its n…

1
Road Safety and Active Travel to School 7:20

30d ago7:20

7:20

Do you worry about the safety of children on their way to school? Are you concerned about the decline in walking and cycling and the impact this has on their health and our environment? A recent debate in the House of Commons addressed these crucial issues, exploring how we can create safer routes and encourage more active travel to school. This ep…

1
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow? The UK Salon Crisis You Need to Know 12:19

1M ago12:19

12:19

Is your local salon facing an uncertain future? Parliament's recent debate exposed a critical situation for the UK's hair and beauty industry. Soaring costs and unfair tax policies are squeezing these vital community hubs, threatening jobs and apprenticeships. Understand the challenges and why it matters to your high street. This episode examines t…

1
Carlisle Floods: Understanding Past Devastation and Future Preparations 10:37

1M ago10:37

10:37

Today we explore the critical issue of flood preparedness in Carlisle. This episode highlights the challenges the city faces and ongoing efforts to protect residents and properties from future flooding events, especially with the increasing risks posed by climate change. Carlisle experienced devastating floods in 2005, the worst since 1822, causing…

1
Fixing the Maternal Health Crisis: Black Women Face Shocking Disparities in the UK 10:29

1M ago10:29

10:29

While the UK is generally safe for childbirth, persistent and deadly inequalities exist for Black and minority ethnic women. Black women are three times more likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth than white women. This critical issue demands urgent attention and action. Key takeaways. Beyond mortality, Black women face higher rates of miscar…

1
UK Master's Funding Explained 12:03

1M ago12:03

12:03

Hey there, future master's student! Thinking about postgraduate studies in the UK but worried about the cost? You're not alone! Navigating the world of funding can seem daunting, but there are actually many potential avenues to explore. We want to give you a clear picture of the possibilities. Today on The Bench Report, Amy and Ivan break down the …

1
The UK Constitution part 5: Central Government 14:52

1M ago14:52

14:52

Who really runs the show in the UK? It's the central government, the executive branch, but its power isn't absolute. It's a fascinating system where the government comes from Parliament and is constantly answerable to it. Understanding this relationship is key to grasping how the UK is governed at the highest level. The Bench Report concludes our s…

1
The UK Constitution part 4: The Judiciary 10:37

1M ago10:37

10:37

Curious about why the UK has not just one, but three distinct legal systems? It might seem a bit unusual for a single country, but it's a fascinating result of history and the Acts of Union. Understanding these differences, and what ties them together, is key to grasping how justice is administered across the United Kingdom. In episode 4 of The Ben…

1
The UK Constitution part 3: Devolution 14:05

1M ago14:05

14:05

Ever wondered how different parts of the UK – Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland – govern themselves? It's a system called devolution, where the UK Parliament has shared some of its power. Understanding how this works is key to grasping the political landscape of the United Kingdom and how decisions are made across the nations. This week, The Be…

1
The UK Constitution part 2: Parliament 12:15

1M ago12:15

12:15

Ever feel like the inner workings of the UK Parliament are a mystery? It's the central stage for making the laws that shape our lives, and understanding its structure and powers is crucial for anyone wanting to know how the UK really works. Unlike some countries with single written constitutions, the UK's parliamentary system has evolved over centu…

1
The UK Constitution part 1: The Crown 14:10

1M ago14:10

14:10

Ever wondered about the real power behind the Crown in the UK? It's more than just crowns and ceremonies. The UK's constitution, unlike many others, isn't written down in one place. Instead, it's a fascinating mix of history, laws, and traditions that have developed over centuries. Understanding how the Crown operates within this system is key to g…

1
English Football Governance: The New Regulatory Framework 13:46

2M ago13:46

13:46

Today, we're looking at the football governance bill. It's already been through the House of Lords, and now it's landed in the House of Commons. This new law aims to tackle long-standing issues in English football, such as club finances, ownership, and giving fans a greater voice – issues brought into sharp focus by the 2021 fan-led review, the pan…

1
Trail Hunting Under Scrutiny: Ban on the Horizon? 12:43

2M ago12:43

12:43

Today we examine the recent parliamentary debate on trail hunting, an activity under increasing fire for its connection to illegal fox hunting despite the Hunting Act 2004. Perran Moon MP opened the discussion, highlighting animal cruelty concerns and the perceived loopholes in current legislation. The debate explores the differences between trail …

1
PIP and Carer's Allowance Changes 11:38

2M ago11:38

11:38

Join us as we unpack a crucial House of Commons debate on the proposed changes to Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and their potential impact on Carer’s Allowance. The Minister of State, Stephen Timms, outlines the government's plan to reform PIP through the "Pathways to Work" Green Paper, aiming to create a more sustainable system focused on t…

1
Landline Revolution: Unpacking the UK's Big Digital Phone Switch 23:19

2M ago23:19

23:19

Ready to explore the upcoming changes to your home phone? In this episode, we investigate the UK's nationwide shift from traditional landlines to a fully digital network. The old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is being retired, with all calls moving over broadband by the end of January 2027. This industry-led transition is happening becau…

1
Driving the Electric Revolution: Licence Changes for Zero Emission Vehicles 13:52

2M ago13:52

13:52

As my eldest is turning 17 soon, this is of particular interest! Join us as we explore the recent changes to UK driving licence regulations designed to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles. We examine the new rules, which allow standard category B licence holders to drive fully electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles up to 4.25 tonnes …

1
University Finances Under Fire: Exploring the Crisis in UK Higher Education and Its Impact on Jobs 15:31

2M ago15:31

15:31

Join us as we investigate the mounting financial pressures facing universities across the United Kingdom. This episode examines a crucial parliamentary debate on the severe financial crisis gripping the higher education sector, revealing the profound consequences for both staff and students. We unpack the alarming statistics, with over 5,000 job cu…

1
Nursery Expansion in Schools: Promises Kept or Promises Broken? 11:23

2M ago11:23

11:23

Join us for the latest announcement from the Labour Government regarding the roll-out of school-based nursery capital grants. Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson outlines the ambitious plan to open and expand nurseries in primary schools, backed by £37 million in funding for an initial 300 schools, aiming for 3,000 new nurseries in …

1
BSL Week: Amplifying Deaf Voices in Parliament 17:49

2M ago17:49

17:49

This episode explores the vibrant discussions during British Sign Language Week in the UK Parliament. We listen in as Members of Parliament examine the significance of BSL as a language, culture, and cornerstone of the deaf community's identity. The conversation unpacks the progress made since the British Sign Language Act 2022, while also shining …

1
The Weekend Briefing: passport queues, AI in government, the cladding scandal and more. 12:26

2M ago12:26

12:26

The Bench Report Weekend Briefing presents a summary of our topics discussed in episodes this past week and beyond We begin with the question of dedicated UK passport queues and the government's focus on efficiency over national identity. The briefing then addresses the ongoing UK cladding scandal, highlighting slow progress and significant cost in…

1
REWIND: MPs' Expenses Overhaul: The Kelly Report & the Future of Allowances 13:47

2M ago13:47

13:47

This REWIND episode delves into a significant moment in UK parliamentary history: the House of Commons statement on the Kelly Report, which proposed a new framework for MPs' expenses and allowances. Following public anger over past claims, the report aimed to restore trust and confidence in Parliament. Listen to the key points as Harriet Harman, th…

1
AI in Government: Opportunities and Obstacles 15:06

2M ago15:06

15:06

Join us as we explore the intricate world of Artificial Intelligence within the UK government. This episode investigates the findings of the Committee of Public Accounts' report on the use of AI in the public sector. We examine the immense potential of AI to revolutionise public services, from automating routine tasks and boosting efficiency to lev…

1
UK Transport Talk: Growth, Grievances & Green Goals 15:06

2M ago15:06

15:06

Join us for an engaging exploration into the heart of UK transport policy as we unpack the recent House of Commons Transport Questions session from March 27, 2025. We'll examine the government's strong emphasis on transport's role in driving economic growth, alongside the myriad of concerns and debates raised by MPs. From the sticky issue of the Ga…

1
Unsafe Homes: The Cladding Crisis examined 15:01

2M ago15:01

15:01

Join us as we explore the ongoing crisis surrounding dangerous cladding in residential buildings, years after the Grenfell Tower disaster. We examine the latest report from the Committee of Public Accounts, uncovering the sheer scale of the problem, now estimated to affect 9,000 to 12,000 buildings and potentially 3 million people. Discover why pro…

1
Scunthorpe Steel Crisis: The Future of UK Steel 10:46

2M ago10:46

10:46

An emergency episoide of 'The Bench Report today as we explore the critical debate in Parliament surrounding the future of Scunthorpe Steelworks following British Steel's worrying announcement of potential blast furnace closures and job losses. We examine the government's immediate response to support affected workers and their conditional offer of…

1
PE & School Sport: Funding, access and targets 18:48

2M ago18:48

18:48

LISTENER REQUEST EPISODE! Our producer Tom plays (well, tries to play) football each week, as do his children. One of Tom's team-mates is a PE teacher, who, when chatting about Tom's crazy podcast idea, asked (demanded) to know to what the government are doing about the lack of playing fields for his pupils. So...this one's for you, Mr Harrision! W…

1
REWIND: Article 50 Triggered: Inside the Historic Brexit Debate 16:09

2M ago16:09

16:09

Join us as we delve into the momentous day the UK formally triggered Article 50, beginning the process of leaving the European Union. This episode takes you inside the House of Commons as Prime Minister Theresa May delivers her statement and faces a barrage of questions from MPs across the political spectrum. Hear the key arguments, the hopes for a…

1
Down Syndrome Act 2022: Understanding the Guidance and the Fight for Progress 18:13

2M ago18:13

18:13

EXTRA: includes an overview of other notable issues debated in the Commons recently. The Down Syndrome Act 2022 aims to ensure public authorities in England, like the NHS, social care, education, and housing, meet the specific needs of individuals with Down syndrome. This episode delves into the crucial guidance associated with the Act, exploring i…

1
Horizon Scandal Redress: Government Response Under Scrutiny 14:02

2M ago14:02

14:02

This episode delves into the latest developments in the Post Office Horizon scandal redress process, examining the Government's response to the Business and Trade Committee's critical report. We unpack the key recommendations made by the Committee and analyse which have been accepted, partially accepted, or rejected by the Department for Business a…

1
UK Airport Queues: Should Brits Get Their Own Passport Lines? 10:48

2M ago10:48

10:48

Essential listeng for the Easter and Summer holidays! This episode of 'The Bench Report' will provide you with a quick understanding of the discussions surrounding dedicated passport lines for British passport holders at UK airports, as detailed in recent parliamentary questions. Explore the debate around dedicated passport lines for British citize…

1
Public Sector Productivity: Has Working From Home Changed Everything? 12:54

3M ago12:54

12:54

Is working from home helping or hindering the public sector? Join us as we delve into a lively debate in the House of Lords about the impact of remote working on productivity. With public sector productivity still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels, questions are being raised about whether the surge in working from home is a contributing factor. We…

1
REWIND: UK Coronavirus Bill: Emergency Powers, NHS Support & Civil Liberties Debate 16:16

3M ago16:16

16:16

Our first Bench Report REWIND explores the UK Parliament's Second Reading of the Coronavirus Bill, a piece of legislation enacted to tackle the unprecedented public health emergency. We delve into the extraordinary measures proposed by our decision makers in government. We examine the justification for these unprecedented peacetime measures, includ…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Bench Report PUK Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide