Hello and welcome to Inside Briefing, the podcast from the Institute for Government. I'm Emma Norris.

Christmas is nearly here, time to unwind and spend time with the family, or for Rishyosunak,

a chance to get away from the

five families. Yes, that's how five groups of right-wing conservative rebels now brand themselves,

and they haven't been making life easy for the Prime Minister. His immigration bill has made

its way through the Commons after much posturing from unhappy MPs, and no doubt after plenty

of pleading from government whips.

But is the real fight still to come?

We'll take a look at where this week's events leave the Prime Minister's plans

after a dramatic few days in Parliament.

Luckily for the Prime Minister, he got to spend Monday away from Westminster.

Unluckily for the Prime Minister, he had to spend Monday giving evidence to the COVID inquiry in Paddington.

So how did he do and what did we learn? And finally, as Parliament shuts up shop for the festive period,

we'll round up the week's other events and take a quick look ahead to 2024. So we've got plenty to

talk about. Throughout, I'm going to be joined by IFG's Alex Thomas, fresh from our Christmas party

and skillfully dodging the winter bugs flying around the office.

Hi Alex. How are you feeling this morning?

I'm feeling very well, thank you. I'm not sure there's much skill to do with it, but yes, I'm so far feeling all right. Thanks, Emma.

I'm glad to hear it. I'm delighted that we're also joined today by a friend of the IFG, Esther Weber, Politico Senior UK correspondent.

Hi Esther. Are you ready for Christmas?

Hi, Emma. No, not remotely. I think once Parliament entry recess begins, then I start

preparing. Yep, similar story here. Okay, let's start with the drama in Parliament this week, though

...