Politics Weekly UK

As Starmer apologises for believing Mandelson’s ‘lies’, just how damaging will the latter’s links to Jeffrey Epstein be for the PM’s own reputation? John Harris and Kiran Stacey discuss the latest. Plus, the mood on the ground from the Gorton and Denton byelection Why this Manchester byelection is a lesson in 21st century politics – video Please send your questions and messages for Pippa Crerar, Kiran Stacey and John Harris to [email protected]. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Peter Mandelson has resigned his Labour party membership after new details of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein came to light. But why did Labour ever decide to appoint him as US ambassador? Pippa and Kiran chat through what No 10 knew and when. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Keir Starmer held talks with the Chinese leader Xi Jinping this week and proclaimed Britain should have a more ‘sophisticated’ relationship with China. Pippa Crerar, who was with the prime minister on the trip, tells Kiran Stacey what all this means. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Reform UK has announced Matt Goodwin as its candidate for the hotly anticipated Gorton and Denton byelection. John Harris and Kiran Stacey discuss his chances. Plus, John speaks to Esther Ghey about why the government should back a social media ban for under-16s. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The Labour party has once again been plunged into turmoil after the NEC blocked Andy Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton byelection. Will the row quickly fade, or does it risk piling further pressure on the prime minister? Meanwhile, Pippa Crerar will be joining Keir Starmer on his trip to China – but can he focus on diplomacy abroad, or will the Westminster psychodrama continue to overshadow the visit?. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod