The Week… Rishi tries to save his skin

Published

1 year ago

April 21, 2024

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Two of Westminster’s best-connected journalists, Sky News’s Sam Coates and Politico’s Jack Blanchard, guide you through their top predictions for the next seven days in British politics.

This week, they react to MP Mark Menzies’ resignation from the Conservative Party and look at what it might mean for the next election.

Also this week, Rishi Sunak is packing his bags for Europe. Jack and Sam discuss what’s on the trip’s agenda, including highly anticipated announcements on the defence of Ukraine, as well as the UK’s wider defence and warfare strategy.

Mr Sunak’s Rwanda plan could finally pass through parliament too, more than five months after he unveiled the emergency laws. Jack and Sam reveal the final stage will be far from straightforward though, with MPs told to expect a long night in the Commons.

Plus, Angela Rayner is standing in for Keir Starmer at PMQs this week, the first time she’s been in the Commons since police announced they were investigating her. Jack and Sam discuss how she’ll deal with the mounting pressure.

? Listen above then tap here to follow Politics at Jack at Sam’s wherever you get your podcasts ?

Email with your thoughts and rate how their predictions play out: jackandsam@sky.uk or jackandsam@politico.co.uk

Politics

Patrick Spencer: Suspended Tory MP denies sexually assaulting two women at private members’ club

Published

5 mins ago

June 16, 2025

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Patrick Spencer: Suspended Tory MP denies sexually assaulting two women at private members' club

An MP has denied two counts of sexual assault allegedly carried out at a private members’ club in central London.

Patrick Spencer, who represents Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, is accused of cupping the breasts of two women over their clothes at the Groucho Club in August 2023.

The 37-year-old confirmed his full name and date of birth before pleading not guilty to the offences at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.

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He is due to appear at Southwark Crown Court on 14 July.

Spencer was suspended from the Conservative Party and had the whip withdrawn after the charges were brought.

The politician was first elected to parliament last year with a majority of 4,290.

Lawyers acting for the MP have previously said he “categorically denies the charges” and would defend against the allegations “robustly in court”.

The Groucho Club, on Dean Street, opened in 1985 and became a renowned meeting place for A-list celebrities and others, including actors, comedians and media executives.

The club was named after the comedian and actor Groucho Marx, who reportedly once said he would refuse to join any club that would have him as a member.