What does Starmer really want from China?
Electoral Dysfunction
Sky News
4.4 • 764 Ratings
🗓️ 30 January 2026
⏱️ 38 minutes
🧾️ Download transcript
Summary
Beth joins the Prime Minister on his historic trip to China, where he has met the country's president Xi Jinping. It’s a trip that has sparked debate back in the UK, amid worries over espionage and security. But has it helped reset relations? And what does Starmer really hope to achieve from his visit?
Beth, Harriet and Ruth discuss.
Plus, Beth brings us all the behind-the-scenes gossip from the trip - including what it was like on the PM’s plane and what gift Starmer bought for Xi.
Meanwhile, back in the UK, listeners have been sending in their questions about the recent Conservative defections to Reform UK. Has Nigel Farage managed to quieten his critics, now his party includes experience of government?
And with the Tory right increasingly jumping ship, how has Kemi Badenoch handled the growing number of defections? Harriet and Ruth tackle your questions.
You can WhatsApp the podcast at 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk.
And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth and Harriet on YouTube.
Transcript
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| 1:10.3 | The... Hello and welcome to electoral dysfunction with me, Beth Rigby, |
| 1:26.9 | me Ruth Davidson and me Harriet Harmon. |
... |
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