As co-pilot Pearson makes a triumphant return to the rocket, sunkissed and well rested, there is no short of madness orbiting the rocket. But has the UK really gone back to the 70s?

Allison thinks the PM’s Rose Garden speech was ‘tone deaf’ and with things only set to get worse, in the words of the PM, co pilot Halligan delivers some sobering economic predictions for the upcoming budget.

Strapping into the cockpit this week is Director of the Free Speech Union, Toby Young who gives his take on the incoming government and why social media is not to blame for the recent riots in the UK.

And there’s a triumphant return from Velma.

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

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As co-pilot Pearson circles Heathrow waiting for clearance to land, Liam is joined by Planet Normal Cosmonaut Supreme, Baroness Claire Fox.

There's been much madness to dissect since the rocket's last orbit. How is the new Labour government handling the Summer chaos?

Claire is frustrated that the Tory leadership contest seems to be leaving the country without a strong opposition and that it might leave the Conservatives unable to challenge the Labour party.

Whilst Liam is optimistic that new Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, has the potential to pull off the reform the National Health Service needs to get back on track.

Stowing away on the rocket this week is author and Conservative Peer, Jon Moynihan who expresses his concern at Labour’s economic policies, saying they won’t create growth by ‘just cutting wages’.

And there is a delve into the fumbling Planet Normal mailbag which is overflowing from the recent Summer break…

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Jon: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2024/08/18/uk-economy-growth-social-democracy-bankrupt-conservative/ |

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The temperature is heating up on the rocket this week, as the whole country basks in a heatwave but is the election shade being thrown threatening to spoil your co-pilots fun in the sun?

Allison spills the beans on her trip to the campaign trail with Reform UK Leader, Nigel Farage and claims that, in her view, a vote for the party isn’t a wasted one.

Whilst Liam is worried about the potential judiciary changes an incoming Labour government might make and the effect they could have on our democracy.

Joining your co-pilots for a return mission on the rocket is journalist Peter Hitchens who gives his take on the political landscape in the week before the big election.

And co-pilot Pearson weighs in with her weekly update from the Euros football tournament…

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read Allison: ‘Reform puts British people first – how is that a wasted vote?’: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/columnists/2024/06/25/reform-britain-wasted-vote/ |

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It’s the dawn of a new era on the rocket as Liz Truss takes the throne as Prime Minister. But do our co-pilots think she's got what it takes?

Co-pilot Halligan predicts Truss will grow into the role, but warns she will have to be a 'shape-shifter' in order to tackle the toughest in-tray of any peace-time PM. 

Allison wasn't blown away by Truss' debut speech, comparing her performance to that of a nervous head girl, but thought her first showing at PMQs was a vast improvement.

Both our co-pilots agree Truss should ditch her notes and stick to speaking off the cuff in future.

Also entering the sanctuary of sweet reason this week is journalist and General Secretary of the Free Speech Union, Toby Young, who shares his disappointment at the fall of the Johnson premiership and his thoughts on the new Truss cabinet. Plus, Toby opens up about what it's like to be ‘cancelled’.

And finally, the debate over co-pilot Pearson’s ‘hello’ rages on…

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Book tickets for An afternoon with Allison Pearson: https://extra.telegraph.co.uk/events/live-idk-event |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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The curtain is finally falling on the Tory leadership contest. The spectacle might be nearly over - to the relief of our co-pilots - but the madness is just beginning for Boris' successor.

As we bid farewell to the Johnson premiership, co-pilot Pearson is adamant we need more of a ‘realist’ at the helm. She warns the incoming PM must put dealing with the cost of living crisis ahead of the green agenda.

Co-pilot Halligan agrees the push towards net zero must not come at the expense of ordinary people. He's especially concerned about how businesses will cope this winter without any price cap on their energy bills.

Also climbing aboard the rocket this week is co-founder of FairFuel UK, Howard Cox, who tells our co-pilots what the Government should be doing to reduce fuel prices as people struggle to fill up their cars.

And co-pilot Pearson has an exciting event to announce....

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Book tickets for An afternoon with Allison Pearson: https://extra.telegraph.co.uk/events/live-idk-event |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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Levels of discontent have reached new highs on the rocket this week, with crisis brewing in the NHS and the economy.

Co-pilot Halligan is frustrated that the Government remains 'leaderless, rudderless and hopeless' at such a critical time. While Allison is concerned the country could descend into 'third world Britain.'

Plus, our co-pilots deliver their verdict on Rishi Sunak’s revelatory interview in The Spectator, voicing his concerns about the Covid-19 lockdown. Liam is miffed the former chancellor is only speaking up now, but co-pilot Pearson is relieved that people who questioned lockdown have been vindicated. 

Also joining our co-pilots is oncologist Professor Pat Price, who says we are in the midst of the worst cancer crisis ever seen in the UK. Professor Price warns the backlog could cost thousands of lives, but politicians are failing to recognise the magnitude of the disaster.

And co-pilot Pearson shares her latest bathing habits in light of the cost of living crisis...

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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It’s A-level results day, and it’s not just the grades that are up for scrutiny on the rocket this week.

Both our co-pilots lament the cost of lockdown on this year’s A-level recipients, with Allison also taking aim at social engineering schemes that are replacing traditional entry requirements into UK universities. 

Climbing aboard the capsule of common sense for his second voyage is Conservative Mayor of Teesside, Ben Houchen. He warns the Tories will face backlash for ousting Boris Johnson regardless of who wins the leadership contest, but is hopeful that delivering on levelling up could save the party at the next election.

Liam is concerned rising inflation will get much worse before it gets better, and suggests the UK economy is now feeling the effects of lockdowns as well as the conflict in Ukraine.

While co-pilot Pearson declares an unlikely allegiance to Sir Keir Starmer this week, over his plan to freeze the energy price cap. 

And the rocket crowns another ‘numpty of the week’.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Call Bethel: podfollow.com/call-bethel 

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With temperatures soaring and the energy crisis escalating, our co-pilots have run out of patience with the lack of political leadership.

Allison is 'fuming' that the focus on net zero has led to a 'grotesque' failure of energy security, and warns we are on-board a ‘captainless ship’ at the mercy of the elements and heading towards an iceberg as winter approaches.

Co-pilot Halligan takes aim at the 'indulgent' Tory leadership 'psychodrama', and argues the country urgently needs politicians to get on with the business of governing, as the economic rubber hits the road.

Also strapping in to the capsule of common sense this week is barrister and trainee psychotherapist James Esses, who was ejected from his university course for raising the alarm about transgender ideology being pushed onto young people.

And co-pilot Pearson's alter ego ‘Velma’ makes a welcome return to the rocket. 

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to the Planet Normal with Sharon Davies: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/02/18/human-rights-females-trampled-olympic-swimmer-sharron-davies/ |

Listen to the Planet Normal with Helen Pluckrose:https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/10/12/week-planet-normal-declaration-covid-lockdown-rights-society/ |

Support James Esses: https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/expelled-university-free-speech/ |

Listen to Call Bethel: podfollow.com/call-bethel 

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The political psychodrama rumbles on, but both our co-pilots think it's time for a curtain call on the leadership showdown. 

So will Rishi Sunak throw the towel in?

Co-pilot Halligan climbs aboard the rocket from his holiday to deliver some hard truths, warning the former chancellor to ‘bow out’ if he wants to save his future in politics. Liam argues the political class needs to turn its focus to the energy emergency, rather than infighting.

Fresh from declaring her allegiance to Liz Truss, co-pilot Pearson agrees that Rishi Sunak should step aside. She believes he is out of touch with the struggles most people face amidst the escalating cost of living crisis.

Also hopping aboard the capsule of common sense is Michael Jacobs, economist and former adviser to Gordon Brown. He tells our co-pilots the policies being put forward by the Tory leadership candidates are fiscally irresponsible, and suggests the Labour Party now appears to be more economically credible. 

And our co-pilots share their favourite moments from the roaring Lionesses' triumphant Euros victory.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to the Planet Normal with Gordon Wishart: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/12/09/planet-normal-nations-social-contract-government-has-broken/ |

Listen to Call Bethel: podfollow.com/call-bethel 

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It's full-contact battle as Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak face off to become the next Prime Minister. 

So who better to join our co-pilots on the rocket of right thinking than Dame Andrea Leadsom, campaign manager for former front runner Penny Mordaunt, and a one-time Tory leadership contender herself. Dame Andrea takes aim at political 'black ops' and says it's painful to see candidates publicly 'taking lumps out of each other.'

Co-pilot Pearson predicts that Liz Truss will be the one to cinch victory. But Allison is concerned about the effect that a Truss premiership could have on maintaining the red wall.

Liam agrees that Sunak might lose out to Truss, arguing that his lack of political experience is coming to the fore and suggesting the former Chancellor shouldn't have run for leader at such an early point in his career.

And our listeners have their say on who they think should be the future leader of the country…

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read Andrea Leadsom's ‘Snakes and Ladders’: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Snakes-and-Ladders/dp/178590700X |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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It’s been a dramatic week since the rocket's last journey, with scores of cabinet resignations shaking the Johnson Premiership. So will the squealing piglet’s head finally reach the chopping block? And which member of the Tory party could be waiting in the wings to take over?

Liam warns the job is a poisoned chalice, and wonders who would want to take the crown when an economic crisis is looming. Co-pilot Pearson is determined that Boris Johnson's replacement must be a Brexiteer, as she mourns the loss of broken promises made by the PM in his astounding 2019 victory.

Joining our co-pilots this week is Donna Ockenden, the senior midwife who led the review into the maternity scandal at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trusts. In a moving interview she tells our co-pilots about the emotional toll the review took on her, and why she thinks mothers must be made aware of the risks of remote midwife led units (MLU).

In light of the interview, co-pilot Pearson vows to launch a campaign to investigate this issue further, watch this space…

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read 'NHS must disclose risks of giving birth in midwifery-led unit, Donna Ockenden warns': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2022/07/07/nhs-must-disclose-risks-giving-birth-midwifery-led-unit-donna/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics:  https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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The by-election results are in, and the predictions of Planet Normal's very own clairvoyant co-pilot 'Mystic Pearson' proved to be eerily accurate.

Allison warns the results show many Conservative supporters are so dissatisfied that they will vote 'A.B.B: Anyone But Boris'.

Our co-pilots blame the Prime Minister's broken promises, likening his Government to a Deliveroo driver turning up empty-handed but still telling you they've delivered.

Liam believes Boris Johnson's party are now just keeping him around as a 'human sponge' to absorb the pain of the impending recession. 

Also hopping aboard the capsule of common sense this week is financial expert Justin Urquhart Stewart who delivers some dire economic predictions. He tells our co-pilots that rising inflation won't go away any time soon, and that it could have serious consequences for investment in the UK.

And George makes a triumphant return to the rocket… 

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Daniel: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/d/da-de/daniel-hannan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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This episode was recorded on Wednesday the 22nd of June before the UK by-elections.

It’s all eyes on the Conservative party this week as they face all important by-elections. But will it be fun in the sun for Prime Minister Boris Johnson, or a political washout? 

One thing’s for sure, the political heat in rocket this week is rising faster than the soaring rate of inflation, as our co-pilots share their views.

Allison warns that there may be more public sympathy with striking workers than the government thinks, and Liam is perplexed at the decision to reinstate the ‘triple lock’ which sees pensions increase alongside inflation.

Joining the rocket of sweet reason for a returning mission this week is Liz Cole and Molly Kingsley from the children’s campaign group ‘Us for Them. Fresh from penning their debut book ‘The Children’s Enquiry’, Molly and Liz share their dismay at the lack of consideration for the cost of lockdowns borne by children, and reveal they are concerned about Covid measures being returned to schools if cases rise in the autumn.

And finally co-pilot Pearson has a very exciting career announcement to make...

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Pre Order ‘The Children’s Inquiry by Liz Cole and Molly Kingsley: https://books.telegraph.co.uk/Product/Liz-Cole/The-Childrens-Inquiry--How-the-state-and-society-failed-t/26994891 | 

Listen to Ukraine: The Latest: www.playpodca.st/ukraine|

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With the rocket hurtling towards the election, what do its inhabitants make of the latest manifesto madness?

In light of the latest inflation figures Liam thinks the Conservatives need to be more honest about tax hikes, whilst Allison thinks that Reform’s policies are what should have been in the Conservative Party Manifesto, and might help pull back some disillusioned voters.

Also joining your co-pilots for a return mission to the rocket is journalist and the Social Democratic Party candidate for Middlesbrough South, Rod Liddle, who gives the co-pilots an update on his campaign and the ‘soft’ deal his party has struck with Reform UK.

And is it coming home? Allison gives her take on the Euros…

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read Allison ‘Watching England with my menfolk introduced me to some odd rituals – and Gary Lineker’s Next range’: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/columnists/2024/06/19/england-euro-2024-gary-lineker-next-range-bbc/ |

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The rising cost of living continues to bite as we board the rocket of right thinking this week, but UK-EU relations have also returned to centre stage.

Baroness Claire Fox steps into the spaceboots again as guest co-pilot, to help Liam dissect all of the week's judicial jousting and performative politics. 

Claire believes the EU is determined to pick a fight over the Northern Ireland Protocol bill, describing it as the 'third big Brexit battle.'

Liam thinks it is 'completely out of order' the way the EU is 'messing with Northern Ireland,' and argues they just want to give the UK 'a kicking' over Brexit. 

The Government's economic policy was also on the agenda this week, with co-pilot Halligan suggesting the Prime Minister and his party are having an identity crisis over whether to cut taxes to stimulate the economy, or to continue borrowing and spending.

Also climbing aboard the rocket of right thinking this week is Helen Thomas, Former adviser to Chancellor George Osborne and CEO of BlondeMoney. She believes that there is a battle on for the soul of the Conservative Party, but urges traditional Tories to embrace a bigger state in this time of crisis if they want to win over a new generation.

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Claire: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/c/ck-co/claire-fox/ |

Listen to History Defended: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/history-defended|

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The votes are in and the Prime Minister lives to fight another day. 

But is it the beginning of the end of the Johnson Premiership? Our co-pilots are divided.

Allison is mourning the end of her love affair with Boris Johnson this week. Co-pilot Pearson believes his backflips on Conservative policy pledges are making voters feel like "a cheated spouse." While she's not convinced the PM is toast just yet, Allison warns his "slowly rotting edifice" is causing untold damage to his party. 

Liam argues there aren't any viable candidates to replace Boris Johnson, especially as the cost of living crisis intensifies and the war in Ukraine continues. But co-pilot Halligan admits he is frustrated with the PM's "flabby and limp" policy ideas, and warns he'll need proposals that are more "red meat" than "vegan sausage" if he wants backbenchers to rally around them.

Also boarding the capsule of common sense this week is columnist and Conservative peer Daniel Hannan. He tells our co-pilots the PM is on his "last chance," and suggests Boris Johnson takes a leaf out of Gordon Brown's book when it comes to the economy and spending.

And finally, Allison reveals the hilarious name of one of her WhatsApp group chats.

Allison Pearson: 'My love affair with Boris is over' - https://www.telegraph.co.uk/columnists/2022/06/07/love-affair-boris/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Daniel: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/d/da-de/daniel-hannan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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It's all eyes on the Queen as the nation celebrates Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee, now known on the rocket as 'Platty Joobs.'

Our podcast co-hosts are struck by the parallels between this landmark event and another, the Silver Jubilee in 1977, which also fell during a period of political and economic uncertainty.

Liam Halligan thinks while the mood is celebratory at the moment, all bets are off once the Jubilee has finished, as political scandals and the cost of living crisis return to the headlines.

Allison Pearson thinks the Government will pay the price for recent spending pledges which have seemed more 'Winnie the Pooh' than Conservative.

Also hopping aboard the rocket this week is leading economist and Telegraph columnist, Roger Bootle, who tells our co-pilots he is flabbergasted at how the Bank of England dropped the ball on rising inflation and discuss the dangers of groupthink in our financial institutions.

And, our co-hosts have some advice for any Planet Normal residents planning their own Jubilee celebrations.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Roger: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/r/rk-ro/roger-bootle/ | 

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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As the partygate scandal reaches a crescendo with the release of the much-anticipated Sue Gray report, our co-pilots bring you their highlights from the revelations. 

But is the report damning enough to see Boris Johnson bounced out of No10?

Co-pilot Halligan warns the Prime Minister will never truly be rid of 'partygate,' because the scandal will forever be part of his political epitaph. But, Liam still thinks Boris Johnson will scrape by, and argues the political and media class risk looking 'astonishingly out of touch' if they continue to focus on the scandal while the cost of living soars. 

Co-pilot Pearson doesn't think the PM is out of the woods just yet. She isn’t bothered about how many canapés Boris Johnson ‘gobbled up,’ but rather that he was telling the nation they must obey draconian coronavirus measures while ignoring them himself.

Allison also takes issue with 'game-playing' inside Downing Street, after the suspicious timing of a new cost of living support package which she believes is as much designed to 'save the backside of Boris Johnson' as it is to help those struggling.

Also hopping aboard the rocket of right thinking this week is Calvin Robinson, a black trainee Priest who was blocked from being ordained in the Church of England due to his anti-woke beliefs, including that Britain is not institutionally racist. 

Calvin shares his despair at how 'wokeness' is taking over the church, and reveals how his experiences as an ethnic minority have often been dismissed by the 'metropolitan liberal elite' due to his Conservative views. 

And finally, Allison debuts her best Mansfield accent - listen at your peril!

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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Inflation has hit a 40 year high this week and so has our co-pilot's frustration with the NHS.

The state of the health service is at the forefront of co-pilot Pearson's mind, after a new report revealed the astonishing scale of NHS bureaucracy.

Allison is furious at the "parasitical layers of management" in the health service, and argues funding should be focused on providing frontline services and reducing waiting lists.

Co-pilot Halligan agrees we're not getting our money's worth when it comes to the healthcare system, but he's optimistic that there could be change in the air as more public figures raise concerns about NHS inefficiency.

Liam hopes the media and public will start to demand better policies from the Government and opposition parties on healthcare and the cost of living, but predicts the latter will dominate politics for the foreseeable future. 

Also climbing aboard the rocket of right thinking this week is author Dr Joanna Williams, to discuss how groupthink threatens democracy and why society needs to fight against the 'woke mindset'.

And finally, Allison shares the unlikely way that the rising cost of living crisis has affected her beloved pooch.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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This very special 100th episode was recorded live at the Soho Hotel, London.

It's a special week on Planet Normal, our co-pilots are celebrating 100 voyages on the capsule of common sense. But does Allison finally know what a podcast is?

It’s a star studded affair, with many former Planet Normal stowaways making an appearance on the rocket of right thinking to celebrate the occasion.

Esteemed epidemiologist Professor Sunetra Gupta joins the rocket once again, to discuss the changing opinions on Covid restrictions as the pandemic eases and why she thinks The Great Barrington Declaration should never have been labelled ‘controversial’.

Chair of the 1922 backbench committee Sir Graham Brady also straps in to tell our co-pilots why he thinks VAT should be scrapped on energy bills.

But does Sir Graham reveal just many letters of no confidence he has received against Boris Johnson? 

And finally, we hear from YOU - our acclaimed citizens of Planet Normal, as our co-pilots and guests answer your questions.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Watch the Planet Normal live Event: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheTelegraphLive/videos |

Listen to Ukraine: The Latest: www.playpodca.st/ukraine||

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NB: This episode was recorded on Wednesday May 4th 2022

It's Local Election Day, with some 4,350 seats being contested around the country as the rocket of right-thinking heads into orbit.

So which party will come out on top? And how might the result play out for our political leaders? 

Liam believes that the Prime Minister has got the big calls right, and argues Boris Johnson will survive no matter the outcome of the local elections. 

Co-pilot Pearson isn't as convinced, warning the PM could eventually pay the price for a lack of ‘human touch’ in decisions surrounding the ongoing cost of living crisis and for his zealous pursuit of the Net Zero agenda while energy bills skyrocket.

Allison also shares her take on the latest scandals engulfing Westminster. She doesn't buy into the idea that a widespread culture of sleaze exists, arguing that the majority of MPs are decent, hard working people.

Also entering the sanctuary of sweet reason this week is Tim Knox. Fresh from authoring the 2022 International Care Outcomes Index, Tim climbs aboard the rocket to reveal some harsh truths about exactly where our NHS sits in the international league tables. He tells our co-pilots that the Westminster village need to 'wake up' from their complacency coma and recognise that the NHS is failing, before more lives are lost.

And one listener’s unfortunate mishap with an internet search engine has our co-pilots entertained….

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Watch the Planet Normal live Event: https://extra.telegraph.co.uk/events/live-planet-normal-event |

Read Tim Knox's report on International Health Outcomes: https://www.civitas.org.uk/content/files/International-Health-Care-Outcomes-Index-FINAL.pdf |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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With co-pilot Pearson taking a much needed holiday this week, former Labour MP Baroness Kate Hoey steps into the spaceboots once again to help Liam tackle the latest dose of madness from our political class.

Forget partygate, because this week it’s all about ‘leg-gate’ in Westminster. So what do our co-pilots think the change of subject might mean for the Prime Minister?

Kate thinks Boris Johnson is an expert when it comes to weathering the storm, and she believes he would emerge victorious if he leads the Conservatives to the next election. She also reveals her concerns about Labour's leadership, warning that Sir Keir Starmer's 'Europhile' status could prevent the party from winning back red wall voters.

Liam agrees that Brexit could come back to haunt the Labour party, unless they apologise for trying to reverse the referendum decision. He wants a 'fair fight' when it comes to our democracy, and suggests the opposition should focus more on the cost of living crisis if they want a chance of victory at the next election.

Also strapping into the rocket this week is Conservative MP Mark Harper, who explains why he is convinced the Prime Minister should resign. The Covid Recovery Group chairman also shares his thoughts on what the public enquiry over the pandemic should focus on.

Read more from Kate: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/k/ka-ke/kate-hoey/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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It might be a marathon of contrition for our Prime Minister this week, but our co-pilots are making no apologies for their views on the Planet Normal rocket.

Both Allison and Liam can’t help but feel that the attacks on Boris Johnson over partygate are just parliamentary posturing, and show how unpleasant politics in the UK has become.  

Allison thinks Sir Keir Starmer's assaults on the PM - invoking emotive stories of sacrifices made during lockdown - are 'entirely hypocritical', because Labour supported the measures and even demanded they go further.

Whilst Liam warns the opposition's continued focus on partygate might actually alienate voters who are more concerned with issues like the spiralling cost of living and Channel migrant crisis.

Also joining our co-pilots on the spaceship of sweet reason this week is Telegraph leader writer and columnist Tim Stanley, who tells our co-pilots why he feels the treatment of the Prime Minister shows we have hit a ‘new low in public life.’

Tim also shares why he found the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby’s controversial comments on the Home Office's Rwanda migrant plan ‘uncomfortable.’ 

And finally, Allison reveals her unlikely previous life as a Sunday school teacher.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Tim Stanley: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/t/tf-tj/tim-stanley/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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It's been a bruising week for the Government, with all eyes on the Chancellor's family finances before a damaging stream of Partygate penalty notices.

And with inflation on the rise and the cost of living crisis intensifying, it seems the tsunami of woes has only just begun for Boris Johnson. So can the PM navigate the storm?

Co-pilot Pearson is well and truly undecided, as she confesses she is experiencing ‘Starmer-esque’ levels of fence-sitting over Boris Johnson's future as Prime Minister.

Liam thinks there will be plenty of voters out to give the Tory party ‘bloody noses’ at the upcoming local elections, but it's still unlikely Boris will be replaced as leader. He believes there's much more pain to come in the cost of living crisis, and savvy leadership hopefuls will keep the PM around as a 'sponge' to absorb the worst of it.

Also joining our co-pilots on another mission to the refuge of sweet reason is historian Professor Robert Tombs who beams in to give our co-pilots his thoughts on the French election.

As a self-proclaimed Brexiteer, Professor Tombs is concerned that neither a Macron or Le Pen presidency will be good news for the UK. He also warns that the far-right candidate could be disastrous for the Eurozone.

And finally, co-pilot Pearson has been doing her economic homework. One house point for knowing what the definition of PPI is! 

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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In this episode of Planet Normal, your co-pilots strap into the rocket with Leader of Reform UK, Nigel Farage. In a true rocket grilling Nigel responds to people saying his party is racist, reveals how many votes he expects to win at the upcoming election, and if he really would stand down candidates in Tory marginal seats.

Also on this episode with Labour heading for a big majority, what do your co-pilots make of the party manifestos hitting the headlines this week?

Liam thinks the Tory manifesto is more about keeping the Party together than appealing to the electorate. Whilst Allison thinks that the incoming Labour government could soon ‘come a cropper’ even with a storming majority…

And did Allison manage to return from her holiday to Turkey without another furry friend, listen to find out…

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read Allison ‘Nigel Farage is already the leader of the Conservatives’: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/columnists/2024/06/11/allison-pearson-nigel-farage-conservatives-leader/ |

Read more: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2024/06/10/farage-hoping-to-gatecrash-sunak-starmer-debates/

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As national insurance contributions, energy prices and council tax all increased this week, so too did our co-pilot's frustration with the Government's handling of the cost of living crisis.

Allison is concerned that covid could throw even more economic turmoil in the mix. With nine new symptoms being added to the official list, co-pilot Pearson fears it will be too easy for workers to use the virus as an excuse to shelter under the 'national duvet.'

And as the conflict in Ukraine rages on, Liam is worried about how long the UK can maintain economic sanctions before rising living costs become impossible to bear for many Brits. 

So as the economic rubber hits the road, has Britain got the strength to weather the economic storm? 

Boarding the spaceship of sweet reason on its 95th voyage is the Telegraph's Senior Foreign Correspondent Roland Oliphant. Roland, who spent many years reporting from Moscow, shares his insights after spending recent weeks on the ground in Ukraine. He tells our co-pilots why concerns of a third World War are not hyperbole and why no real peace talks will happen until one side has suffered defeat in what he calls an ‘old fashioned war of aggression’.

And finally, one listener reveals the unlikely side effect they have experienced from regular travel on the rocket of right thinking.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Roland: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/r/rk-ro/roland-oliphant/ 

Get online tickets to the Planet Normal live event: https://extra.telegraph.co.uk/events/live-planet-normal-event |

Listen to Ukraine: The Latest: www.playpodca.st/ukraine|

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It's somewhat of a sombre week on Planet Normal, as our co-pilots are left shaken by the findings of the Ockenden inquiry into maternity scandals.

The report found over 200 babies and mothers could have survived if it wasn't for catastrophic failures at Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust.

Allison struggles to contain her anger at the revelation some mothers were even blamed for their own deaths. She believes the tragedies have exposed serious problems with maternity services, and calls for a Royal Commission into the NHS.

Co-pilot Halligan is nearly moved to tears by the heartbreaking stories of bereaved parents. He hopes the disturbing revelations of arrogance and institutional lack of empathy will spark a long overdue conversation about the health service.

Also boarding the capsule of common sense this week is Professor Mark Woolhouse, one of the UK's leading epidemiologists.

Professor Woolhouse tells our co-pilots why he never supported lockdown policies, and takes aim at the campaign of fear around coronavirus.

Plus, our co-pilots have a special update on plans for a live event to mark the 100th episode of Planet Normal.

Get tickets to the Planet Normal live event: https://extra.telegraph.co.uk/events/live-planet-normal-event|

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Allison Pearson: 'The maternity report that proves the NHS is not a national treasure – it’s a national disgrace': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/columnists/2022/03/29/maternity-report-proves-nhs-not-national-treasure-national/ |

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It's a fiscal feast on this week's voyage, with a special episode all about the Chancellor's Spring Statement. And boarding the rocket of right thinking to give his expert take is Telegraph columnist Ben Wright.

So, as inflation hits a 30-year high and families face skyrocketing energy bills, did Rishi Sunak's 'mini-budget' deliver on easing the cost of living crisis? It's a resounding no from our co-pilots.

Resident economic expert Liam declares the Chancellor's statement 'politically tone-deaf.' He's concerned Rishi Sunak is playing political games rather than providing support for the most vulnerable.

And the reception isn't much warmer from Ben, who warns the Chancellor's announcement will end up pleasing nobody. He thinks the Labour opposition summed up the Spring Statement perfectly when they shouted: 'Is that it?!' 

Also on the capsule of common sense this week, we mark two years since the UK went into lockdown with an extra special email. 

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Ben: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/b/ba-be/ben-wright/ |

Ben Wright: 'Is that really it, Chancellor?': https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2022/03/23/rishi-sunak-has-able-pay-paul-first-robbing-peter/ |

Listen to Ukraine: The Latest: www.playpodca.st/ukraine|

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The cost of living crisis is reaching a boiling point in the UK, and co-pilot Halligan warns things could get even worse. 

As food and fuel prices go through the roof, Allison points out how accurate the predictions of 'Gypsy Rose Halligan' and his crystal ball have been so far.  

As we eagerly await the contents of Rishi Sunak’s spring statement, Liam thinks the Chancellor needs to splash more cash to help Brits struggling to afford necessities. He suggests Mr Sunak 'blame the war' if he's concerned about his reputation and 'small-state' credentials.

Co-pilot Pearson believes the Chancellor should cut fuel duty and scrap the National Insurance rise, to ease the burden on families facing the biggest pressures on their budgets seen in decades. 

But there's no doubt in the capsule of common sense this week that Russia's war in Ukraine is adding fuel to the cost of living fire.

And joining our co-pilots this week in a moving interview from Kyiv, is Ukrainian MP Kira Rudik. She shares a glimpse into her dangerous daily life as a political leader on Putin's 'kill list' and says she may not survive long enough to see the benefits of sanctions the West have placed on Russia.

Kira also offers her gratitude to the UK for its 'amazing' support of her country and reveals that thousands of Brits have reportedly joined the fight, according to Ukrainian intelligence. 

Also on the sanctuary of sweet reason this week, Allison shares what she really thinks of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s latest Telegraph column. Plus our co-pilots rejoice over Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe's release after years in custody in Iran.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Ukraine: The Latest: www.playpodca.st/ukraine|

Submit your suggestions for the terms of reference of the UK COVID-19 inquiry: https://ukcovid19inquiry.citizenspace.com/contribute/terms-of-reference-consultation/ |

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As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensifies, our co-pilots are breaking down what the crisis means for the UK and the rest of the world. Starting on the economic front. With soaring energy prices and public finances in disarray, is a recession now inevitable? 

Our resident economic expert co-pilot Halligan says it's not all bad news, with the great unlocking after the pandemic still leading to some growth. But as Brits begin to feel the effects of our economic war with Russia, he thinks Western leaders need to ‘grow up’ and ‘get back to basics’ on fiscal policy.

Allison has felt a reinvigorated sense of pride for her country this week, praising the UK's efforts to equip and train Ukrainian soldiers and even taking aim at those sniping about Boris Johnson's response to the crisis. 

Also boarding the capsule of common sense this week is former British Ambassador to Russia, Sir Tony Brenton, who tells our co-pilots that the West must take some responsibility for the war in Ukraine, after provoking Russia with the expansion of NATO.

He also warns that Western hostility is pushing Russia and China closer together, a development that Sir Tony believes could have dire consequences.

And as the cost of living continues to skyrocket, Allison is considering packing it all in and heading to the wilderness. So will our co-pilots be swapping broadcasting for bivouacs?

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Ukraine: The Latest: www.playpodca.st/ukraine|

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Entering the capsule of common sense is Former Head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, who tells our co-pilots why he was surprised by Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and warns Russia's arsenal of weapons will cause 'carnage'.

Sir Richard also takes aim at Europe's 'unwise' and 'naive' decision to rely on energy from Russia and weighs in on the state of armed forces in the UK.

Co-pilot Pearson commends the spirited response from Ukraine, and her alter ego - the scrupulous ‘Velma’ - has been revising defence strategies, to deliver a deep dive into the ongoing conflict.

Liam thinks that Putin has misjudged public opinion in Russia and underestimated the response from the West, arguing that the biggest war still to come might be the economic one. 

Both agree that the crisis could be an opportunity for our own Prime Minister to redeem himself after partygate, so could this be Boris Johnson's ‘Falklands moment’?

Plus, our co-pilots hear from a junior doctor in Kyiv about what life is like at the heart of the battle.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: www.playpodca.st/chopper |

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It’s a joyous week on Planet Normal as co-pilot Pearson returns to her rightful place at the helm of the rocket. And she’s not short of things to say.

It’s three big cheers for the end of Covid restrictions, but only one and a half of those are for Prime Minister Boris Johnson. 

Allison fears the public mindset is now the biggest threat, and expects squeals about the end of restrictions from the 'lockdown is lovely' and ‘there’s no harm in being cautious’ classes. 

Liam is looking ahead to the public inquiry, and hopes it might teach us not to have a 'knee-jerk' response to any future pandemic.

Joining our co-pilots this week is former Australian Foreign Affairs Minister, Alexander Downer, who beams in ahead of his review of the UK Border Force to tell our co-pilots how tough immigration policies in Australia have successfully halted migrant boats, and shut down dangerous people smuggling operations. 

Mr Downer also reveals that government insiders told him the Prime Minister was 'forced' into introducing many Covid restrictions. Plus, he weighs in on whether Australia would ever remove the Queen as head of state.

And, fond farewells are the order of the day as George, our secret NHS source, has one last update for our co-pilots and listeners. 

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read Annette’s late father Owen’s blog: https://annettejames1.wixsite.com/pottingshedtales | 

Listen to History Defended: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/history-defended|

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

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As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to build, co-pilot Halligan is joined for one week only by a new co-presenter. Telegraph defence editor, Con Coughlin, steps in to give his take on the recent developments in the region and how it could affect the rest of the world.

Con believes Russia remains the biggest threat to the Western Alliance, but warns we shouldn’t overlook China and its bid for ‘global conquest’.

Whilst Liam is concerned with the bigger economic issues that might be at stake and how the turmoil could impact our wallets if it isn't contained.

Also boarding the rocket this week is MP and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Tom Tugendhat, who tells our co-pilots the European Union's response to the conflict simply proves the EU is ineffectual on foreign policy issues.

He also shares his concerns on the net zero agenda, and why it shouldn’t come at the expense of levelling up or when households are grappling with the rising cost of living.

And one listener email has our co-pilots laughing at an unlikely encounter with their GP. 

Read more from Con: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/con-coughlin/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Con Coughlin: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2022/02/13/vladimir-putin-taking-big-gamble/ |

Con Coughlin: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2022/02/10/appeasing-russia-west-conspiring-destruction/ |

Ambrose Evans- Pritchard: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2022/02/15/putin-close-winning-ukraine/ |

 Listen to History Defended: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/history-defended|

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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Make a complaint: https://www.patients-association.org.uk/making-a-complaint |

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The bell has rung for Parliamentary recess but the political drama shows no signs of slowing down, and neither do our co-pilots.

Fresh from announcing he'll be standing down at the next election, MP Sir Charles Walker joins our co-pilots on the rocket to explain why he thinks it would be ‘heroic’ and ‘courageous’ for the PM to resign. He also says that the public has to shoulder some responsibility for lockdown measures, and highlights the importance of political 'Yorkshire pudding' for Boris Johnson's future (listen to find out what that means!). 

Also on the podcast, as Sajid Javid unveils his latest plans to shift the NHS backlog, our co-pilots share their own concerns. Allison thinks the Health Secretary is lacking urgency in this ‘matter of life and death’, while Liam thinks a proper debate, prompted by the media, is needed to restructure our healthcare system.

And there is another entertaining delve into the mailbag as listeners share some entertaining anecdotes from their childhood that young people today might find incomprehensible...

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

You can contact the Patients Association here: https://www.patients-association.org.uk/making-a-complaint 

Listen to I Witnessed History: www.playpodca.st/witnessed |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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Another week on Planet Normal poses more questions over the future of our Prime Minister. But do our co-pilots think Mr Johnson is a dead man walking or, to borrow a phrase from PM himself, that the Partygate storm is merely a 'pyramid of piffle'?

Allison's done defending Boris Johnson for good, but Liam's advice for the PM? The economy, stupid. Co-pilot Halligan thinks he should channel Bill Clinton, by using proven economic policies to overcome his personal scandals.

Plus, Liam weighs in on the Government's 'levelling up' white paper. Is it just a canny slogan? Or will the plan mean real change? 

Also boarding the rocket of right thinking this week is Dr Steve James, who beams in to tell our co-pilots why he confronted Sajid Javid about compulsory vaccines for NHS staff - and the overwhelming support he received after the incident went viral. Steve also shares his insights from working in ICU during the pandemic, and what he would do if he could wave his magic wand over the NHS.

And, a nostalgic delve into the Planet Normal mailbag this week, as listeners share their childhood memories from the 70s.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: www.playpodca.st/chopper |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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Whilst co-pilot Pearson takes a well earned break from the rocket Liam is joined by a temporary co-pilot and fellow right thinker, Baroness Claire Fox.

Political fur is flying in wake of the first election television debate,  but who do Claire and Liam think came out on top?

Claire thinks that the competing parties are underestimating the needs of the electorate in their mandate material. Whilst Liam thinks the parties aren’t doing enough to convince the public of their long term economic security, post election.

Also boarding the rocket to give an insight into election tactics from the Labour camp is Former Head of Broadcasting for the Labour Party Matthew Laza, who dishes out some advice for the party.

And what does Baroness Fox make of the politics from across the pond?

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Claire: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/c/ck-co/claire-fox/ |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

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The nation waits for Sue Gray's 'Partygate' report, and Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan are here to fill the void. Will the PM cling on? Yes, says Liam, but there are more important issues at hand. He tells us what. Meanwhile Allison wonders if we're seeing a coordinated campaign against the PM from Tory ranks. And she too has been ambushed by cake.

Joining our co-pilots on the rocket this week is Isle of Wight MP, Bob Seely, who condemns a 'national scandal'. Which one, you ask? The use of 'hysterical' scientific modelling to drive lockdown policies. He lays bare the damage done by decision makers who used worst-case scenario forecasting to push for draconian measures. 

And, as we bid Plan B restrictions a welcome farewell, listeners share the most ludicrous Covid rules in their area.

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: www.playpodca.st/chopper |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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Actress and presenter Denise Welch brings some star power to Planet Normal, as she joins Telegraph columnists Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan in their rocket of right-thinking. She used to pull pints in the Rovers Return, but these days, you can find her engaging with her hundreds of thousands of Twitter followers on the real-world impact of repeated Covid lockdowns. Not one to shy away from difficult truths, she tells listeners when she first recognised signs of a "Covidian cult", and shares her moving first-hand experience of a "broken" NHS.

Also on the podcast: Plan B restrictions are finally on the way out, but will Boris Johnson be going with them? Our co-pilots look into their crystal ball, and weigh up the runners and riders were a Tory leadership election to take place.

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 20th January 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2022/01/20/planet-normal-question-isnt-whether-boris-johnson-should-stay/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to I Witnessed History: www.playpodca.st/witnessed |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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Boarding the rocket of right-thinking in a podcast exclusive, no less, is Lord Frost. The one-time chief Brexit negotiator, who quit his Cabinet role as Brexit minister in December, tells Liam Halligan and Allison Pearson how the Government’s ineffective Covid policy drove him out of Downing Street, what it was really like sitting opposite Brussels on the negotiating table and why he advises slow steps in the Net Zero agenda.

Also on the podcast - the question not even Number 10 knows the answer to: Can Boris Johnson survive so-called Partygate? Our co-pilots debate whether public outcry at a Downing Street gathering over May's lockdown could spell the end of the Johnson premiership. 

And is there an internal plot against the PM? Our hosts have their own theories.

Watch Lord Frost's interview with Liam: https://youtu.be/hFId3IUxH9w |

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 13th January 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2022/01/13/lord-frost-covid-lockdowns-serious-mistake-government-needs/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to I Witnessed History: www.playpodca.st/witnessed |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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With a new year comes a new wave of cynicism on our rocket of right thinking. This week, Allison wonders why the government has made it respectable for healthy people to skive work, while Liam predicts a year of ‘political unrest’. And both co-pilots ponder the question, how much Covid testing is too much?

Joining us on our Planet Normal voyage is pub owner and hospitality champion, Adam Brooks who delivers some home truths about the real effect of Covid restrictions on his venues, and shares the moving reason he's inspired to fight the good fight for hospitality.

And Allison shares her surprising, but scarily realistic dream with listeners.

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 6th January 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2022/01/06/planet-normal-now-pandemic-testing-not-illness/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper’s Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper | 

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

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Parliamentary sketchwriter Madeline Grant joins Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan to give listeners the inside track on a tumultuous week in the Commons and why she believes the PM can no longer count on his own party to support further Covid measures. Plus, as The Telegraph's resident James Bond expert, she recommends her top instalment for your Christmas viewing.

Also on the podcast: Liam tells us why it's not impossible you won't have heard of the next PM, Allison brings a revealing update from our NHS insider and our co-pilots agree that an election tomorrow would spell bad news for the Tories.

And while Allison celebrates the return of the nation's sense of humour, we take a look back at some lighter moments from another year onboard the Planet Normal rocket.

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 23rd of December: 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/12/23/planet-normal-quickly-have-lost-sight-right-freedom/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Madeline: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/madeline-grant |

Listen to Bed of Lies: https://www.playpodca.st/bedoflies |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

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Minister for Trade Penny Mordaunt beams into the Planet Normal rocket from Atlanta, Georgia, in the week where Boris Johnson suffered the most bruising rebellion of his premiership. Over 100 of her Conservative colleagues voted against his plans for Covid passports. The former Cabinet minister tells Telegraph columnists Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan why, and brings listeners the inside track on trade negotiations in post-Brexit Britain.

Plus, Liam tells us why he's concerned we're seeing 'lockdown by stealth', Allison calls for the NHS to channel the vigour of the national booster campaign into testing for other diseases, and our co-pilots take a dive into 70s nostalgia - space hoppers and all. 

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 16th of December 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/12/16/planet-normal-seeing-lockdown-stealth/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Brian Moore's Full Contact: www.playpodca.st/fullcontact |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

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The government's Covid 'Plan B' is here and our co-pilots have a lot of adjectives to describe it. Spoiler alert: they’re far from complimentary.

Fresh from watching THAT latest press briefing, Liam thinks that the government has broken the social contract with the public and will struggle to get them to comply with the latest restrictions in light of the Christmas party scandal at No10. And, as if to prove him right, Allison declares that she has no intention of familiarising herself with the new rules. 

Plus boarding the flying refuge of reasoned views this week is Professor Gordon Wishart, Chief Medical Officer at Check4Cancer and Visiting Professor of Cancer Surgery at Anglia Ruskin University, who tells Allison and Liam that there's no point returning to pre-pandemic "normal" when it comes to cancer services, as they were failing before the pandemic - we must aim for "super normal”.

And with a bursting mail bag on the rocket, Liam is particularly moved by one listener email.

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 9th of December, 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/12/09/planet-normal-nations-social-contract-government-has-broken |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

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Christmas. Usually heralded by snow on the ground, Christmas trees and Mariah Carey. And, it seems, a new Covid-19 variant. On this week's podcast, columnists Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan weigh in on the latest developments and tell us why they're confident festivities mustn't take a hit, despite some scientists acting as if the UK is in the eye of the pandemic storm.

Making her second trip to Planet Normal is revered Oxford University epidemiologist Professor Sunetra Gupta, who tells our co-pilots why we are ‘overplaying’ the hype around the new variant, whilst ‘undervaluing’ the power of natural immunity. And immediately Allison's blood pressure drops.

Plus our co-pilots unveil a surprising Planet Normal hero of the week.

Listen to the full interview with Professor Sunetra Gupta: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/12/02/planet-normal-shouldnt-have-panicked-omicron-ever |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Brian Moore's Full Contact: www.playpodca.st/fullcontact |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

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Another seven days on Planet Normal means another ‘numpty of the week’ and this time our very own Prime Minister is a hot contender. Liam tells listeners why he thinks Boris Johnson is ‘winging it’, while Allison worries that the PM has been taking writing tips from his infant son following his recent chaotic speech at the CBI conference. But will Sir Keir Starmer's popularity surge as Boris Johnson's dwindles? Or would that be all too... normal?

Also on the podcast: award-winning science writer Matt Ridley boards the rocket to tell our co-pilots why he's spent months investigating the origins of Covid-19. He tells us why swift and widespread dismissal of the Wuhan lab leak theory was a ‘shocking episode in the history of science’, and proposes his solution to see health information shared more quickly, fully and globally.

Plus, the Great British Bake Off causes a stir as our co-pilots reveal who they would have crowned champion.

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 25th of November 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/11/25/planet-normal-dismissing-wuhan-lab-leak-conspiracy-theory-shocking |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Brian Moore's Full Contact: www.playpodca.st/fullcontact |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Everything's gone a bit pear-shaped, and it hasn't escaped the notice of Telegraph columnists Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan. With inflation above 4% and the cost of living spiralling, Liam tells listeners why he's convinced the PM is distracted by "chaos" within Tory ranks, while Allison has her head in her hands over the political class' "deflection and denial" following the distressing attack in Liverpool.

Plus, never two to shy away from difficult subjects, our co-hosts welcome academic and terrorism expert Dr Rakib Ehsan aboard the rocket to share his concerns over the UK's Prevent strategy, the portrayal of Muslim people in the media and why our leaders are suffering from "bigotry of low expectations".

And a particularly complimentary listener email leaves Ms Pearson blushing...

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Bed of Lies: https://www.playpodca.st/bedoflies | 

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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This special anniversary episode was recorded live in front of an audience of Planet Normal citizens, from Cadogan Hall in London.

The beloved rocket gains a few extra passengers this week as our third Planet Normal live event takes off!

Your co-pilots give their thoughts on the upcoming election alongside some very special guests.

The first revered stowaway on the rocket this week is Lord David Frost, who reveals how he tried to save the Conservative Party from themselves.

Also strapping in for lift-off is writer Lionel Shriver, who reveals why her latest novel ‘Mania’ could be quite close to home..

And the Planet Normal citizens have their say as your co-pilots take questions from the live audience.

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/a/ak-ao/allison-pearson/ |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Learn more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the 75th voyage to Planet Normal, but our co-pilots Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan aren't popping corks just yet. On this week's episode, they have strong words for the head of NHS England Amanda Pritchard, whose recent error on Covid admissions statistics had them putting their heads in their hands. Luckily Planet Normal's resident hospital bed occupancy expert (AKA Ms Pearson) is on hand to set the record straight. Plus, our co-hosts disagree entirely respectfully on the NHS "jab for jobs" announcement.

Joining us on the rocket of right-thinking is Oxford emeritus fellow Professor Lawrence Goldman, who doesn't hold back on the problems in UK university fundraising in the wake of the Mosley money row. But it's not just Oxford accepting money from dubious sources. He tells Allison and Liam why he believes the problem is 'systemic', with institutions throwing 'academic principles and common sense out of the window'.

And brace yourselves, co-pilot Halligan treats listeners to a special musical performance...

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 11th of November 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/opinion/2021/11/11/planet-normal-money-common-sense-uk-universities/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Bed of Lies: https://www.playpodca.st/bedoflies |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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Broadcaster and and former Director of Strategy to David Cameron, Steve Hilton makes a rare UK media appearance to tell our Planet Normal co-pilots, Allison Pearson and Liam Halligan, how his former boss was actually a Eurosceptic, what President Biden has in common with a Monty Python sketch and why things are looking good for Donald Trump in 2024.

And with the spotlight on all things green this week, the Planet Normal rocket takes a virtual trip to Cop26. Allison disregards the gathering as a 'pantomime', Liam tells us why he's backing the Indian approach to net zero, and our co-pilots agree that were they attending a climate change summit, they might skip the private jet.

Also on the podcast: have the charms of French President Emmanuel Macron finally worn off for Ms Pearson?

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

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It’s Budget week, which means big announcements, big spending and big celebrations for Allison, who arrives for our recording with a big surprise for Liam: she’s only gone and won an award.

Our co-pilot may have a trophy, but she’s got more than a few questions for our resident economist, co-pilot Halligan who is on hand to explain why he thinks Chancellor Rishi Sunak might have earned himself the nickname ’Risky Rishi’  after delivering his third Budget. But do the sums really add up?

Also joining our co-pilots is Telegraph columnist Ben Wright, who tells Planet Normal why he felt as if he were watching a Labour chancellor instead of a Conservative one.

And did we mention Allison won an award?

Allison will be replying to comments beneath this article on Thursday 28th of October 11am-12pm: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2021/10/27/planet-normal-big-budget-breakdown/ |

Read more from Allison: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/allison-pearson/ |

Read more from Liam: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/liam-halligan/ |

Read more from Ben: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/ben-wright/ | 

Listen to Chopper's Politics: https://www.playpodca.st/chopper |

Need help subscribing or reviewing? Read more about podcasts here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/radio/podcasts/podcast-can-find-best-ones-listen/ |

Email: planetnormal@telegraph.co.uk |

For 30 days’ free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/normal |

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.