EXTRA: Wes Streeting on his friendship with Peter Mandelson

EXTRA: Wes Streeting on his friendship with Peter Mandelson

Author: Sky News February 9, 2026 Duration: 39:57

Health Secretary Wes Streeting speaks exclusively to Beth as pressure on the Prime Minister to resign continues to rise.

Streeting tells Beth that people should “give Keir a chance” after he claimed it “has not been the best week for the government”, and recognises there is a “febrile” atmosphere.

It comes after a weekend of briefing around how Wes Streeting is connected to Peter Mandelson over the weekend – and in this podcast, Wes Streeting exclusively reveals his Whatsapp messages with Beth, over the period that Mandelson was ambassador in Washington.

But is he at risk of suffering from ‘revisionism’? Harriet thinks commentators need to be careful when remembering what went on with Peter Mandelson.

Plus – how much weight does Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar’s comments have? He's called on Starmer to resign today, saying that “the situation in Downing Street is not good enough”.

We’ll be back on Friday with our usual weekly episode.


Three formidable figures from the heart of British politics-Beth Rigby, Ruth Davidson, and Harriet Harman-sit down together each week for a conversation that cuts through the noise. This isn't a staged debate, but a frank, often surprising look behind the curtain of power. In Electoral Dysfunction, brought to you by Sky News, they apply their combined decades of frontline experience to dissect the real motives, the unspoken strategies, and the personal ambitions driving the headlines. You’ll hear them parse the language of politicians, questioning not just what is said but the meaning lurking between the lines. The core of this podcast is its unique dynamic: a blend of insider insight from across the political spectrum that identifies who is gaining ground and who, truly, is struggling with their own electoral dysfunction. It’s a masterclass in understanding the mechanics of politics, from policy to personality. Each episode feels like you’re eavesdropping on a private, knowledgeable discussion that makes sense of the week’s events in Westminster and across the country, offering clarity where there is often only confusion. For anyone trying to navigate the complexities of modern political life, this series provides an essential and deeply informed perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Electoral Dysfunction
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