

This Is Why
Sky News
The world’s a pretty confusing place right now – so how do you make sense of it all? This Is Why takes one story every day, explains how we got here and why it matters to you.
Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions.
Available every weekday afternoon.
This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.uk
Sky News’ Niall Paterson speaks to experts and correspondents from around the world, getting simple answers to some complex questions.
Available every weekday afternoon.
This Is Why is a Sky News podcast – if you have a question, contact us: why@sky.uk
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 15, 2023 • 18min
Prince Harry, phone hacking and the executives who knew
Prince Harry discusses his victory in a landmark court case against the Mirror Group, revealing extensive phone hacking and illegal information gathering. The ruling implicates senior executives and sheds light on attempts to conceal illegal activities. The podcast explores the implications for Piers Morgan, Prince Harry's call for press accountability, and the significance of the judgment for him and the media industry. It emphasizes the need for press regulation and reform to maintain public trust.

Dec 14, 2023 • 19min
Ukraine and the US: Solutions to the aid stalemate
The podcast discusses Ukraine's plea for more aid from the US, the stalemate in Congress, and the pushback from Republicans. It explores the progress and reasons for Ukraine's failed counteroffensive against Russia. The speaker emphasizes the urgent need for supplemental funding and the potential consequences of not providing aid. The discussion also covers President Zelensky's need for evidence of progress, the West's response to the Ukraine conflict, and the difference in GDP between Europe and Russia.

Dec 13, 2023 • 15min
COP28: Is this 'the beginning of the end' for fossil fuels?
The COP28 international climate conference reached a historic agreement to transition 'away' from fossil fuels, though it fell short of completely phasing them out. The significance of this deal in an oil-rich host country is explored. Reactions and commitments from international players like John Kerry are discussed, along with the complexities and controversies of transitioning away from fossil fuels. The responsibilities of developed and developing nations in this transition are examined. The impact of climate summits, including skepticism and progress, is also discussed.

Dec 12, 2023 • 22min
Rishi Sunak wins Rwanda vote. What happens now?
Rishi Sunak's plan to 'stop the boats' by sending migrants to Rwanda passes the House of Commons. The bill addresses issues raised by the Supreme Court and highlights fractures within the Conservative Party. The podcast explores the divisions within the party, potential obstacles for the bill, and the political implications for Sunak and the Tories. It also discusses the possibility of a change in Tory leadership and the ongoing debates surrounding the bill.

Dec 11, 2023 • 21min
Rwanda and COVID: Rishi Sunak's toughest week yet
Rishi Sunak, UK politician facing difficulties within his party, discusses challenges over the Rwanda bill. The Prime Minister defends the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and expresses concerns about funding the pandemic response. The podcast also analyzes the PM's performance in the COVID inquiry and explores divisions within the Conservative Party regarding the Rwanda bill.

Dec 8, 2023 • 16min
Funding the BBC – if not the licence fee then what?
The podcast discusses the rising dissatisfaction with the BBC licence fee, explores alternative funding options, and addresses challenges faced by BBC News. They further explore the challenges and future of BBC funding, including declining viewership and the rise of streaming platforms. The podcast also delves into exploring alternatives to the license fee and recent changes in the organization.

Dec 7, 2023 • 21min
'Unite or die': Why the Tories can't stop fighting
This podcast discusses the infighting within the Conservative Party over the Rwanda migration bill, with key figures like Rishi Sunak facing opposition. It explores the challenges that lie ahead in the legislative pathway and potential backlash from the right-wing. The disarray within the party and criticism towards members undermining Sunak's efforts are also highlighted. The strengths and challenges of Rishi Sunak, as well as the internal conflicts and uncertainties within the Tories, are subjects of discussion.

Dec 6, 2023 • 23min
Boris Johnson at the COVID Inquiry: part one
The former prime minister, Boris Johnson, has given almost five hours of evidence to the COVID inquiry today.He began by apologising for the pain and suffering of victims and their families during the pandemic and admitted that "unquestionably" mistakes were made by his government. But the King’s Counsel’s attempt to get square answers from him about vanished WhatsApp messages, the ‘toxic’ culture inside cabinet and the government’s stalled reaction time wasn’t so straight forward.Today, Sky’s political editor Beth Rigby joins Niall Paterson to unpack the first of two days of questioning in the search for answers about Boris Johnson’s leadership during the pandemic. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont

Dec 5, 2023 • 22min
Will the Tories' latest plans to cut legal migration work?
Exploring the Tories' plan to cut legal migration in the UK, including raising salary thresholds and restricting partner and family visas. Discussing the potential impact on the care sector and challenges in recruiting staff. Highlighting the necessity for professional carers and the lack of recognition in social care.

Dec 4, 2023 • 20min
What happens to the families of sex offenders?
Explore the emotional toll on families of child sex offenders and the lack of support and guidance they face. Learn about the rise in online child sex offenses during the Covid lockdown and the consequences for offenders' families. Discover the challenges faced by Lincolnshire Police's Peter File Online Investigation team in providing support for families of sex offenders.


