Join the Whitehall Sources podcast as we dive deep into Westminster politics. This week, Calum, Kirsty, and Jo, with a special guest appearance from James Nation, ex-Special Advisor to Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

We discuss:

The shocking mistaken release of a migrant sex offender and the fallout at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs).

David Lammy’s handling of the situation and the questions it raises about accountability in government.

Behind-the-scenes insights from PMQs, including the “Rolls Royce” briefing operation and what might have gone wrong this week.

Labour’s budget strategy, Rachel Reeves’ tax plans, manifesto pledges, and the political impact of potential income tax rises.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), Treasury decision-making, and what ministers can and cannot do to influence forecasts.

Unpacking the challenges of fuel duty, public spending, and the UK’s fiscal outlook ahead of the next budget.

Whether you’re a political junkie, policy nerd, or just want insider analysis on Westminster chaos and the upcoming budget, this episode breaks down the biggest political stories of the week.

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This week on Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan (former No.10 special adviser), and political strategist Jo Tanner dissect an explosive week in Westminster — from the Home Office’s “not fit for purpose” report to Keir Starmer’s looming tax U-turn.

👉 Part 1: The Home Office is back in crisis — migrant release blunders, asylum chaos, and Labour’s struggle to get control of small boats.

👉 Part 2: Labour’s credibility crisis — has Keir Starmer already broken his biggest promise not to raise income tax? Kirsty calls it “political suicide.”

🎧 Expect sharp analysis, insider detail, and genuine frustration at a government struggling to deliver.

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This week on Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan, and Jo Tanner unpack the political crisis surrounding the Grooming Gangs Inquiry — after victims resigned and its chair Jim Gamble stepped down. With Jess Phillips under pressure and Baroness Louise Casey drafted in, can the government restore trust?

Then: the rise of the Green Party. New leader Zack Polanski has lifted the Greens to record polling numbers. Pollster Luke Tryl from More in Common explains the data — and Green councillor Hannah Spencer joins to describe how the party is winning over disillusioned voters.

🎧 Subscribe to Whitehall Sources for more UK political analysis every week.

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