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This Is Why

A Daily News , News and News Commentary podcast

#19 in Daily News · 🇬🇧 #21 in Daily News · 🇳🇬
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About the show

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

Newest episodes

Why COP stopped making a difference

15 min

When the COP climate conference was held in Scotland five years ago, it was a who’s who of global politics and celebrity – from US President Joe Biden to actor Leonardo DiCaprio. This year's event in Turkey is very different. Donald Trump was always going to give it a miss – but it’s more of a surprise not to see the likes of France’s Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz of Germany and even arch-climate campaigner, Canada’s Mark Carney. In fact, prime minister Andy Burnham was the only G7 leader to attend. And even that was only for a few hours, as cost-of-living pragmatism overtakes climate crisis concerns. Niall Paterson speaks to Sky’s science and technology editor Tom Clarke and asks if there are any reasons to be optimistic about what COP could still achieve. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why are dangerous dog attacks getting worse?

17 min

When XL bullies were added to the list of banned dog breeds in 2023, it was meant to dramatically reduce the number of people being attacked by dangerous dogs. In fact, serious incidents are on the rise. Hospitals are seeing more cases admitted, while Greater Manchester Police has reported a 900 percent increase in the number of dog seizures – without the resources or the kennels to cope. Sky News correspondent Katie Barnfield was herself the victim of a serious attack last year. She’s been telling Niall Paterson about her investigation into the inexorable increase in dangerous dog attacks. Warning: This episode contains graphic descriptions of Katie’s injuries. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why Russia targeting civilians shows peace talks won’t work

17 min

Even as delegates gathered in Abu Dhabi for renewed negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow’s missiles continued to hit key Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Of course, the response from Russia is that retaliatory strikes on oil and gas sites amount to the same thing. But the United Nations has identified a growing number of Russian attacks on civilian targets that have little or no military justification. Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s defence analyst Robert Clark, who argues Moscow’s continued action shows they have little appetite to stop the fighting. There is more exclusive military analysis and content on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. New users can get a three-month free trial. Download and subscribe here. Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply.

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All episodes

The newest 50 of 1,001 episodes

Why COP stopped making a difference

15 min

When the COP climate conference was held in Scotland five years ago, it was a who’s who of global politics and celebrity – from US President Joe Biden to actor Leonardo DiCaprio. This year's event in Turkey is very different. Donald Trump was always going to give it a miss – but it’s more of a surprise not to see the likes of France’s Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz of Germany and even arch-climate campaigner, Canada’s Mark Carney. In fact, prime minister Andy Burnham was the only G7 leader to attend. And even that was only for a few hours, as cost-of-living pragmatism overtakes climate crisis concerns. Niall Paterson speaks to Sky’s science and technology editor Tom Clarke and asks if there are any reasons to be optimistic about what COP could still achieve. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why are dangerous dog attacks getting worse?

17 min

When XL bullies were added to the list of banned dog breeds in 2023, it was meant to dramatically reduce the number of people being attacked by dangerous dogs. In fact, serious incidents are on the rise. Hospitals are seeing more cases admitted, while Greater Manchester Police has reported a 900 percent increase in the number of dog seizures – without the resources or the kennels to cope. Sky News correspondent Katie Barnfield was herself the victim of a serious attack last year. She’s been telling Niall Paterson about her investigation into the inexorable increase in dangerous dog attacks. Warning: This episode contains graphic descriptions of Katie’s injuries. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why Russia targeting civilians shows peace talks won’t work

17 min

Even as delegates gathered in Abu Dhabi for renewed negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow’s missiles continued to hit key Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Of course, the response from Russia is that retaliatory strikes on oil and gas sites amount to the same thing. But the United Nations has identified a growing number of Russian attacks on civilian targets that have little or no military justification. Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s defence analyst Robert Clark, who argues Moscow’s continued action shows they have little appetite to stop the fighting. There is more exclusive military analysis and content on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. New users can get a three-month free trial. Download and subscribe here. Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Why sex, spies and silicon chips are a problem for Trump

18 min

Nvidia boss Jensen Huang is the most important man in AI. He's also very close to President Trump, with both men having a shared interest in not regulating AI development. He has now admitted to having had an affair, and he is supporting the Nvidia investigation into whether he was targeted by Chinese intelligence. Jensen Huang also said in his statement that "I love our country and our company." A New York Times report alleged the 63-year-old had a close relationship with Alice Huang, a former executive from Singapore-based tech company Megaspeed, who passed information to Beijing. Megaspeed have previously denied reports that they have been involved in illegal chip transfers. Niall is joined by Sky News technology correspondent Rowland Manthorpe to discuss the man behind Nvidia and how this scandal could impact the AI race. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why James Talarico could go all the way to the White House

18 min

A blue tsunami annihilated Donald Trump’s Republican party in the US midterm elections – and one candidate rode the wave higher than anyone. James Talarico (or Talafreako, as Trump nicknamed him) was little known until last year – but managed to win a senate seat for the Democrats in Texas for the first time in decades. College friend Ben Trotter and Niall Stanage, associate editor at The Hill, join Niall Paterson to find out if the committed Christian has what it takes to help the Democrats challenge for the White House. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk You can also watch This Is Why on the Sky News app, and on YouTube.

Why interest rates have gone up

16 min

The Governor of the Bank of England blamed Donald Trump's war with Iran for the first rise in interest rates in more than three years. They have gone up from 3.75 % to 4%. The rise could have an impact on the cost of living and the economy - but could Trump's drubbing in the midterm elections mean that it's not inevitable that there will be more rises to come? Niall talks to Sky's business correspondent Paul Kelso about how the rise will affect our finances and how resilient the UK economy is as the pound is at one of its highest levels since the Brexit referendum. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why can’t we name the celeb who lost his High Court injunction bid?

16 min

An anonymous celebrity asked the High Court to permanently prevent two news organisations from publishing his identity, amid claims of sexual misconduct, which he denies. He argued that if Guardian News and Media (GNM), publisher of The Guardian, and Independent Television News (ITN) published allegations against him, there was a risk that he would take his own life, after two previous suicide attempts. But his claim for an injunction was denied. He lost his case, despite the judge acknowledging he was at risk of suicide. So why do we still not know who he is? What happens next with his appeal, and why does this case matter for investigative journalism? Niall Paterson is joined by legal commentator Joshua Rozenberg. Warning: This episode does contain references to abuse and suicide. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk. You can also watch This Is Why on the Sky News app, and on YouTube.

Why can’t Britain build warships on time?

17 min

The Ministry of Defence has committed billions of pounds to building a new generation of warships. But there's a problem. Older vessels are being retired, their replacements are taking years to arrive, and concerns are growing about the Navy's ability to meet its commitments. So why aren't we building more ships, more quickly? It's about money, a lack of skilled workers, and decades of decisions that have left Britain's shipbuilding industry struggling to keep up. Sky's military analyst Robert Clark joins Niall Paterson to help us understand why. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk. You can also watch This Is Why on the Sky News app, and on YouTube. There is more exclusive military analysis and content on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. Download and subscribe here. Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Why a trip to Hull and back took 28 years

19 min

In October 1998, Karl Bushby left his mum’s house in Humberside to fly to the southern tip of South America. The journey home would take him the best part of three decades to complete. Karl travelled up through the Americas, across the Bering Strait into Russia, crossed the Caspian Sea and trekked the length of Europe before finally swimming the Channel and completing a 31,000-mile ‘modern odyssey’. But there were two rules: no motorised transport – meaning he had to walk or swim the entire distance – and no changing the route. Living by those rules would end up costing Karl more than he could ever have imagined. Niall Paterson speaks to the Daily Telegraph journalist Ed Cumming, who joined Karl on the final leg of his epic adventure. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why King Charles can't apologize for Britain benefitting from slavery

18 min

The King is in the Caribbean, and, so far, he's faced hardly any protests from people campaigning for reparations for transatlantic slavery. But the leaders of the countries he's visiting have been speaking out. The prime minister of the Bahamas told Sky News that reparation is not just about money, but acknowledging what slavery did. There will be more calls for reparations at the Commonwealth summit in Antigua, which the King is attending as head of the organisation. But as Prince William currently shows little inclination to follow his father in becoming head of the Commonwealth, will it be harder in future to put pressure on Britain? Niall is joined by Robert Jobson, author of The Windsor Legacy, and Sir Patrick Vernon, UK representative of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council.

Why your council tax band dates back to 1991

18 min

Prime Minister Andy Burnham joked on TikTok that demand from people trying to find out their council tax band crashed the government website. They wanted to know because Chancellor John Healey announced in his budget that households in England in bands A to D will receive a £100 cash payment to help with energy bills. Wales and Scotland said they planned to replicate the measure. Those bands were based on a property's value in 1991 as the council tax replaced the controversial poll tax. More than 30 years on, despite calls to update property values in the bands, no government has chosen to do it. Niall talks to Sky's business correspondent Paul Kelso about why it's never been tackled and whether this is the best way to help people with their bills. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Israel’s ‘AI Election’

26 min

The World and This Is Why join forces for a special episode on Israel's election - a contest that could have significant consequences for the Middle East and the wider world. Niall Paterson is joined live from Israel by Yalda Hakim and Richard Engel, asking why pollsters seem to have got it so wrong, why this might be the world's first AI election, and why Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after 19 years, looks like he might continue to be the most powerful man in the country. Have you got a question for Niall? Email why@sky.uk You can email questions to Richard and Yalda at theworld@sky.uk You can watch our podcasts on the Sky News app and on our YouTube channel here.

Why leaving Spurs won Harry Kane the Ballon d'Or

15 min

Aged eight, Harry Kane risked being written off when he was released by Arsenal. But Kane persisted, and he was taken on by Tottenham Hotspur's academy. He went on to become the club's all-time top scorer, but his goals didn't result in any trophies for Spurs. His move to Bayern Munich changed that, with the striker having won the Bundesliga twice since moving to Germany. Also, under his captaincy, England achieved their best result at a World Cup since 1966 this summer. Niall talks to Rob Harris, Sky's sports correspondent, about how Kane, aged 33, became the first English player to win football's top individual prize in 25 years. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why Melania's ceasefire will be a lifeline for besieged Ukrainians in Oleshky

15 min

People are surviving on plants, have no power and hardly any water in Oleshky, a Ukrainian city occupied by Russia since the first days of the 2022 full-scale invasion. Ukraine says Russia is using its inhabitants as a human shield to stop Kyiv launching an attack to regain the strategic city. On Tuesday, a ceasefire organised by Melania Trump and the Pope is due to come into effect, which it's hoped will lead to the evacuation of the remaining residents, most of whom are elderly. Niall speaks to Sky's chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay who has just been to an area near Oleshky and spoke to people there about how they are surviving. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why is Sally Rooney pulling her books from shops in the UK?

12 min

There's been a rush to buy Sally Rooney's books after she said she can no longer sell them in the UK. Rooney, known for best-selling novels Normal People and Conversations with Friends, said the decision was made with her publisher over her support for the banned group Palestine Action A month after the group was proscribed by the UK government as a terrorist organisation, Rooney said she would donate the earnings from her UK work to them. The Irish author, seen as one of the most important writers of her generation, has been backed by hundreds of writers and public figures who have signed an open letter to the government. Mhari Aurora speaks to Helen Brown, who writes about culture for the Telegraph, about what is behind Rooney's decision.

Why web attacks show we’re all vulnerable

13 min

PHP. The three little letters few people realised were so vital for most of the websites in the world. But a vulnerability in a piece of programming virtually all of us had never heard of has affected everyone from small businesses to major governments. Millions of cyberattacks have followed in the wake of the problem being made public. But the fact is, your personal information – from email addresses to bank details – was already at risk. AI is increasingly both poacher and gamekeeper – discovering the vulnerability in the first place but also playing a vital role in cybersecurity. So, is it time to rethink our online lives? Gareth Barlow speaks to Sky’s technology correspondent Rowland Manthorpe. Have you got a question for the show? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why do we need new North Sea gas?

19 min

Winter is coming. So, a decision to finally allow drilling at the controversial Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea should be welcome. Well, not by environmental campaigners – who've accused the government of backtracking on its net zero commitments. And even supporters of North Sea expansion have admitted opening Jackdaw won’t reduce energy bills, even though it could start helping to supply homes within months. Why, then, has Andy Burnham invested so much political capital in giving the go-ahead? Gareth Barlow is joined by Sky’s science and technology editor Tom Clarke and business correspondent Paul Kelso. Have you got a question for the show? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why Putin and Xi want to control the Arctic

17 min

Europe’s leaders are joining the fight for the Far North – but is it already too late? The European Union has announced a new security strategy for the Arctic. Yet Russia and China already appear to have a huge advantage in the region. Moscow is exploring new trade routes through its shadow fleet, and – with Beijing’s help – the race is on to exploit the Arctic’s reserves of rare earth minerals. Will the UK, US and Canada join Europe’s belated response? Or, as the ice melts, is too late to stop a new cold war from heating up? Gareth Barlow speaks to Sky’s military analyst, Robert Clark. There is more exclusive military analysis and content on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. Download and subscribe here. Have you got a question for the show? Email us: why@sky.uk Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Why France protests are spreading across Europe

12 min

Violent clashes, burning buildings, widespread looting and thousands of arrests. Even for France, the scale of the current protests across the country is extreme. What started off as student demonstrations, highlighting issues like a lack of staff and equipment in schools, has grown into a much bigger movement – which the government admits it’s struggling to contain. But France isn’t the only country where the young are protesting. Students in Albania, Italy, Spain and Portugal have also clashed with authorities. So, what’s caused such a huge disconnect between the state and young people across the continent? Gareth Barlow speaks to French journalist Catherine Guilyardi, who lives in Paris and witnessed the violence over the weekend. Have you got a question for the podcast? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why didn’t Trump trust Katie Zacharia?

17 min

Surely, the first rule of being a press secretary is never to be the story. But it took Donald Trump's newest spokesperson just 14 minutes to put herself very much front and centre. That was how long Katie Zacharia's first - and only - White House briefing lasted. Now, the president has asked her to consider her position less than a week into the job, leaving her little choice but to stand down. Plucked from a role as a TV talking head, Zacharia had been trusted to replace Karoline Leavitt as the president’s press secretary – responsible for relaying the MAGA message to the media. But she was quickly embroiled in controversy – not least for appearing to overstate her credentials as a fully qualified lawyer. Recorded before her departure, Niall Paterson is joined by the chairman of Republicans Overseas UK, Greg Swenson. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why now? Burnham’s Brexit backtrack explained

17 min

Remember when Brexit meant Brexit? Well, a decade on from the referendum to leave the European Union, Andy Burnham thinks now is the right time to reopen the debate. The new prime minister is calling for a fresh look at our relationship with EU ahead of a summit in November. Is this just an attempt to boost economic growth with a better trade deal or is there more to it? What does Burnham really want? And would the public swallow the prospect of a 'rejoin' referendum? Niall Paterson is joined by the director of the UK in a Changing Europe think tank, Anand Menon. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why tiger death won’t stop zoo visits

13 min

Donald Trump decided to mark the death of a man mauled by a tiger in a Yorkshire zoo by posting an AI-generated video of himself wrestling with a tiger. The killing of 23-year-old William Chapman has offered a stark reminder of just how dangerous zoo animals can be when things go wrong. So, has the social media obsession with animal videos desensitised us to the threat from wildlife? It has also renewed the debate over whether we should be keeping animals like that in captivity in the first place. Just how safe are the UK’s zoos and why do we even have them? Niall Paterson is joined by Amy Dickman, professor of Wildlife Conservation at Oxford University.

Why Ukrainians are angry with Trump’s Russian diesel deal

20 min

Donald Trump just loves a long-running feud, and in recent days he’s returned to an old favourite. America’s mudslinger-in-chief is calling for Ukraine’s wartime president Volodymyr Zelenskyy to be replaced – after he criticised the US diesel deal with Russia. But as Vladimir Putin’s war rages on, elections are perhaps the last thing on the minds of Ukrainians. So, how do people in the war-torn country really feel about Zelenskyy? And what is the reality of everyday life following more than four years of conflict? Niall Paterson speaks to Ukrainian independent journalist Dinara Khalilova about the ongoing trauma being inflicted on the country’s people.

Russell Brand: On Trial – A New Podcast

13 min

In today’s episode of This Is Why, we’re introducing our new podcast – Russell Brand: On Trial Listen to Russell Brand: On Trial on your podcast app What happened on Russell Brand’s first day in court as the trial process got underway? Sky News’ Martin Brunt and Katie Spencer take us through the day- inside and outside the court. It starts with queues of journalists arriving early to get a seat on the press benches of court 3 at Southwark Crown Court. Outside photographers gather to get images of Russell Brand as he walks in with his wife. No broadcast cameras or recording are allowed inside so Katie Spencer - arts and entertainment correspondent for Sky and crime commentator Martin Brunt - are your eyes and ears in court. The first development: selecting the jury, the people who will decide if Russell Brand is guilty, or not guilty. He faces three counts of rape, three of sexual assault and one of indecent assault. He denies all charges and the trial continues. Follow the feed to get every episode. Email us with your thoughts skynewspodcasts@sky.uk

Why didn’t Christa Pike die?

30 min

A notorious killer convicted of murder more than 30 years ago has finally faced the death penalty – execution by lethal injection. Except Christa Pike didn’t die. Investigative journalist John North was one of the few people allowed inside a maximum-security facility in Nashville, Tennessee, to witness Pike’s death. What happened next was one of the most extraordinary moments in America’s troubled history with the death penalty. Speaking to Niall Paterson, John describes in detail how the execution went wrong, why Christa Pike’s violent murder of Colleen Slemmer still resonates three decades later, and the heartbreaking response of her victim’s family. And as the country prepares for its first public execution in almost a century – with plans to livestream former US Army major Nidal Hasan’s death by firing squad – Niall and John discuss why state-sponsored killing remains such a divisive topic in American society. Warning: This episode contains graphic details of Christa Pike’s original crime and attempted execution, which some listeners may find distressing. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why the UK is in trouble if the gas gets turned off

18 min

Taking a hot shower, heating your home, cooking dinner – all things we take for granted. All at risk. Britain’s gas storage levels are at a decade-low, while the UK’s largest storage facility faces closure as its stockpiles near empty. Wars in the Middle East and Ukraine continue to constrain supplies and push up prices. And what if Donald Trump goes through with his threat to put "America first" and stop the flow of fuel abroad? Niall Paterson is joined by Sky's economics and data editor Ed Conway, who was given exclusive access to a previously unseen emergency planning exercise – revealing what would happen if the country runs out of gas. You can watch Ed’s full investigation here. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why France’s school protests are a problem for president Macron

22 min

Imagine being tear-gassed and targeted with stun grenades – all for complaining about timetables, absent teachers and crumbling classrooms. That’s the experience of thousands of French students, whose initial demonstrations over high school conditions have evolved into a wider national protest across 40 towns and cities. Parents, teachers and a sympathetic public have all joined pupils on the barricades. But far-right groups have accused those on the left of politicising the movement. And while the use of stun grenades has now been suspended in France, the response from the police and government has been heavy-handed and heavily criticised – just months before a general election. Niall Paterson is joined by NBC News chief foreign correspondent and co-host of The World podcast, Richard Engel – and Ruby Celemenski, a 17-year-old student in Lyon who has witnessed the police response first-hand.

Why Trump is worried about Russia’s plague ‘lab leak’

16 min

In the 14th Century, the Black Death wiped out up to half the population of Europe. So, no wonder world leaders, including Donald Trump, are keeping a careful watch on a plague scare in Eastern Russia. One laboratory worker from a plague research facility in Siberia has died, with fears they may have been exposed to pneumonic plague – the most virulent and dangerous form of the disease. A further 200 people were placed in quarantine. With the Covid pandemic still fresh in people’s minds, what is pneumonic plague and how worried should we be about a potential outbreak? Niall Paterson speaks to Sky’s science and medical correspondent Thomas Moore. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why Zack Polanski has been banned from Israel

22 min

Green party members have backed a motion that “Zionism is racism” at their party conference. It has exposed deep divisions within the party’s membership - with many long-time members saying they are considering leaving - and within the leadership. Four of the party's five MPs opposed it, and leader Zack Polanski put forward amendments to the motion that were later rejected. Israel has responded by banning Polanski, who is himself Jewish, from entering the country. Niall Paterson spoke to the chair of Jewish Greens and long-time party member Vivien Lichtenstein, who has marched against the Gaza war but is now weighing up leaving. He was also joined by Sky News political correspondent Alexandra Rogers, who was at the Green Party conference this weekend. Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show – why@sky.uk

Why there are concerns over Sir Ranulph Fiennes' health

23 min

The sister-in-law of the 82-year-old explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes travelled from her home abroad to check into a care home where his friends believed he was staying. She managed to meet him and told Sky News how delighted he was to see her. It was a rare visit as his friends and family continue to raise concerns that they are being blocked from seeing him. Cheshire Police though have said "no immediate safeguarding concerns have been identified at this time". Niall Paterson spoke to Arabella Pepper, who is the sister of Sir Ranulph's first wife, about that visit last year. He also spoke to friend and fellow explorer Sir David Hempleman-Adams about Sir Ranulph's achievements. Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show – why@sky.uk

Why do Man City think they can get away with it?

20 min

Guilty. The damning verdict in favour of the Premier League against one of its most successful clubs – Manchester City. The case concerned more than a hundred charges – from disguised funding to misleading accounts – with possible consequences ranging from points deductions to expulsion from the Premier League. But rather than backing down, the club has come out fighting – insisting an independent commission got it wrong and vowing to appeal. With City standing firm and the punishment still undecided, there could be a long way to go before the final whistle. Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s sports correspondent Rob Harris, who has been following the case and putting questions to the club’s most senior figures for more than a decade. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why is Trump pulling troops out of Iraq (while at war with Iran)?

18 min

Since the fall of Saddam Hussein more than two decades ago, the US has had a near-continuous military presence in Iraq... until now. The last troops have been withdrawn, ending a process started by Joe Biden and endorsed by Donald Trump. But the timing of the departure has been questioned - with the US still at war with Iran. According to Iraqi security experts, the withdrawal could give Tehran and its proxies free rein, while also risking a comeback from the Islamic State terror group. So, why have Americans decided to leave Iraq now? And what will it mean for the future of the country - and stability of the wider region? Niall Paterson is joined by Sky's military analyst Robert Clark, who served in the British military in Iraq and Afghanistan. There is more exclusive analysis and content on the conflict in the Middle East on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. Download and subscribe here. Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Why reforming the pension triple lock is ‘electoral suicide’

15 min

It’s long been seen as politically untouchable – but Andy Burnham has finally fired the starting gun on reforms to the state pension triple lock. First brought in by David Cameron’s coalition government, the measure of increasing pension payments by the higher of inflation, average wage rises or 2.5% a year was introduced to offset years of underfunding. But the new prime minister has used his first party conference speech as Labour leader to put the triple lock on the negotiating table – against the wishes of the unions, opposition parties and plenty of his own supporters. So, how does the triple lock work and what could take its place? What is the cost to the country and is reforming the system as straightforward as it appears? Niall Paterson is joined by Claire Moffat, a pension and tax expert at Royal London. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why the RAF Fairford 'plot' doesn’t add up

16 min

Who are you more likely to believe, Donald Trump or a farmer from the Cotswolds? Five UK nationals have been arrested on suspicion of explosives and terrorism offences after a major incident was declared at an RAF airbase in Gloucestershire over the weekend. But they were later released on bail, as counter-terror police remain “open-minded” about whether the incident is linked to a foreign state such as Iran. So, why did the US president claim the group had been “under investigation” for a long time – while a local resident insists she was the one who alerted the police after spotting a group of masked men? What do we know about this investigation? And what does it tell us about how the UK is being targeted by proxies? Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s home affairs editor Jason Farrell. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why is Ed Sheeran fighting for his reputation?

17 min

Ed Sheeran is used to thousands of people singing his songs back at him. But last week, he found himself addressing his audience in a very different way. After Macklemore left Sheeran’s tour following his comments about the war in Gaza, other performers on the bill also pulled out. Sheeran returned to the stage in Philadelphia. Looking visibly upset, he addressed the crowd and apologised. But for a singer who has built his career on being the ‘nice guy’, can Ed Sheeran come back from this? Or has this controversy permanently damaged the image he’s spent years building? Niall Paterson is joined by musician and journalist John Robb. John’s memoir Punk Rock Ruined My Life is available to buy now. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why is Diana book still on sale despite Piers Morgan mistake?

18 min

Recollection may vary, but the facts do not. That’s something that was lost on Princess Diana’s brother in his new book about his sister’s life - which managed to squeeze in a mistake about Piers Morgan amongst its bombshell claims about the King. The former Daily Mirror editor is now suing Earl Spencer and calling for the book to be pulped. So, what checks take place when a memoir is written? And why does the format allow people to publish unproven claims? Niall is joined by the journalist Helen Brown, who writes about culture for The Telegraph. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Three reasons AI could ‘save us all’: This is why

21 min

There’s nothing like the warning of an AI apocalypse to ease you out of summer - but as they say, every cloud has a silver lining. Of course, we can’t rule out artificial intelligence one day doing the unthinkable, as many experts have politely warned, but there are also reasons to believe it could actually save the human race. From breakthroughs in healthcare to helping tackle climate change, this episode explores how small steps for AI could bring about giant leaps for mankind. Niall Paterson reveals the reasons to be cheerful with Sky’s science and technology editor Tom Clarke. For a different view on the dangers of AI, you can watch our episode with Rowland Manthorpe here. Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show – why@sky.uk

Why is Andy Burnham giving military support to Saudi Arabia?

16 min

It's been a busy week already for Andy Burnham - who approved his first military intervention as prime minister just hours before his inaugural meeting with Donald Trump. The RAF will now provide Saudi Arabia with "purely defensive" air support against attacks from Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels, after Burnham agreed to Riyadh’s request. The Saudis had earlier been turned down by Trump – so why is the new PM so happy to help? And is it really due to cost-of-living pressures as he claims? Niall Paterson is joined by Dr H A Hellyer, an expert in geopolitics across the Middle East and Europe and a senior associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute for Defence. There is more exclusive content on the situation in the Middle East on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. Download and subscribe here. Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why TV’s The Wargame exposes some uncomfortable truths

19 min

The new Sky Original TV series The Wargame imagines a terrifying situation – and not just because Michael Gove is prime minister. Vladimir Putin and Russia haven’t yet launched a military attack on UK soil, but the threat is rising. That’s why the show picks a fantasy crisis team of real-life former ministers and ex-military chiefs to see how they might respond to such a potential attack. So, what does The Wargame tell us about the UK’s readiness for all-out Russian aggression? Niall Paterson is joined by the former Labour adviser Baroness Hazarika, who plays the government’s director of communications in the programme. The Wargame, available on Sky and Now, is based on the hugely successful Sky News podcast of the same name. You can find the podcast series here.

Why Diana’s brother is making bombshell claims about the King

17 min

Lots of people have fallen out with their brother-in-law over the years - but it’s perhaps never been as explosive as the row between the King and Earl Spencer. In the latest royal drama involving the House of Windsor, the Palace has hit back at claims made by Princess Diana’s younger brother in a new book about his sister. Among them is that the King was “giddily elated” after Diana’s death. So, what else is in Earl Spencer’s memoir and why is he making these bombshell allegations now? Niall is joined by Sky’s royal correspondent Laura Bundock. Since recording this episode, Earl Spencer has told the BBC that he is 'telling the truth' about a phone conversation he had with the King after Diana's death. Have you got a question for Niall? Email the show – why@sky.uk Audio credit: BBC This episode contains reference to suicide. Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK. Earlier this week, Niall interviewed Britain's most senior military official about why he believes this is the most dangerous moment for the UK in his 35-year career. Scroll back on your feed to find the episode.

Why Canada courting the EU isn’t great news for Great Britain

16 min

Canadian prime minister Mark Carney is looking for closer ties with Europe – but could an “associate” membership with the EU push the UK to the back of the queue? Addressing the European Parliament, Carney welcomed the idea of forming a partnership, which could potentially give Canada closer ties on trade, defence, and technology. The country is keen to strengthen its ties beyond the USA – with Donald Trump still intent on a punishing trade war. But what are the implications for the UK, as relations with Brussels continue to stall? What would associate membership mean? And could Canada become a blueprint for other countries? Niall Paterson speaks to director of the UK in a Changing Europe, Anand Menon.

Chief of Defence Staff: Why this is the UK’s ‘most dangerous moment’

30 min

The country is under threat. Russian aggression, war in the Middle East and a military which has been ‘hollowed out’ for decades have all led to a crisis point for the United Kingdom. In a special episode of This Is Why, Britain’s most senior military official has explained why he believes this is the most dangerous moment in his 35-year career. In a wide-ranging interview with Niall Paterson, the Chief of the Defence Staff – Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton – has also revealed: How John Healey’s resignation as defence secretary took him by surpriseThe battle for more military spending, and what to do with the moneyWhy it’s vital to have an honest conversation about national resilience There is more exclusive content with Sir Richard Knighton on the new Sky News Defence Insider app. Sky News Defence Insider is a subscription app designed for audiences seeking deeper insight into defence, security and global affairs. Download and subscribe here. Paid subscription required for full access. UK only. 18+. T&Cs apply. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why the Thirlwall Inquiry isn’t the last word on Lucy Letby

17 min

The case of Britain’s most prolific child killer has gripped the nation ever since Lucy Letby’s trial began in October 2022. The former neonatal nurse was later convicted of murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven more at the Countess of Chester Hospital between 2015 and 2016. Now, a public inquiry has found some of those deaths could have been avoided if safeguarding action had been taken to remove her from the ward. So, what else did the report find and what action might the hospital face? Niall Paterson and Sky’s chief North of England correspondent, Greg Milam, also discuss whether the findings will support the cause of those who believe Letby is innocent.

Why has Donald Trump called for Irish reunification?

19 min

It was a hole-in-one for the republican cause – the US president using a trip to his golf course in County Clare to lend his weight to the fight for a united Ireland. The timing couldn’t have been better for the first ministers of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, as they met to discuss further cooperation in the campaign for independence. But despite Donald Trump’s insistence that he would “love to see” a united Ireland – even if that means the break-up of the United Kingdom – Westminster should not worry just yet. Niall Paterson has been speaking to Sky’s Ireland correspondent, Stephen Murphy, about why there is not as much of an appetite on either side of the Irish border for reunification as you might expect. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why 9/11 has turned toxic for Rudy Giuliani and Zohran Mamdani

19 min

As America marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terror attacks, a row has erupted between the man who led New York through its darkest moments and the city’s current mayor. Rudy Giuliani became the face of New York’s resilience following the fall of the Twin Towers, but he warned Zohran Mamdani to stay away from official memorial events. Mamdani, the city’s first ever Muslim mayor, ignored his predecessor advice – despite being compared by Giuliani to the al Qaeda terrorists who carried out the 9/11 atrocities. Is Giuliani’s ire racially motivated? What brought about the former Trump ally’s own fall from grace? And what have native New Yorkers made of Mamdani’s time in charge? Niall Paterson is joined by Niall Stanage, White House columnist at The Hill. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Experts warn AI could ‘kill us all’: This is why

20 min

Don’t worry, AI’s not preparing to wipe out humanity with a Terminator-style nuclear Armageddon – that's just not its style. But could it develop a virus that does the job instead? Well, that seems more of a possibility.... And speaking of odds, both former and current employees of tech giant Anthropic put the chances of AI ending all human life at roughly 10 percent. They only differ on the timescale. With seemingly no end to the breathtaking pace of development, is it too late for governments to intervene? And as experts increasingly acknowledge AI could cause existential change, how exactly could that happen? Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s technology correspondent, Rowland Manthorpe. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why does air traffic control keep failing?

16 min

Less up, up and away... more stuck on the tarmac. Hundreds of flights have been cancelled and thousands of passengers stranded after yet another critical collapse of the country’s air traffic control system. While a cyber-attack has been ruled out, it’s still the third time in four years severe disruption has affected airlines and travellers because of problems at NATS – a public-private partnership and the UK’s leading provider of air traffic control services. Why do these issues keep happening? Should the government intervene? And is it only a matter of time before passenger safety is compromised? Niall Paterson speaks to aviation expert and former air traffic controller, Doug Maclean. Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why are NHS staff targeting terror attack victims?

21 min

Imagine your child has been the victim of a terror attack. Then imagine the most intimate details of their injuries being viewed and shared without your permission or knowledge. A Sky News and Health Service Journal investigation has uncovered the extent to which NHS staff are accessing patients’ medical records. High profile cases include the victims of the Nottingham and Southport attacks. But information was also accessed to carry out coercive control and domestic abuse. Niall Paterson speaks to Sky’s health correspondent, Ashish Joshi, and Zoe Tidman – senior correspondent for the Health Service Journal. NHS England has issued a response to the investigation, saying: “All NHS trusts are required to maintain audit logs of access to patient information as well as having controls in place to prevent and identify unauthorised access – and must take action in cases where staff have abused the trust of patients by accessing personal records without good reason.” Have you got a question for Niall? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why anti-migrant protests are getting more ‘professional’

19 min

We have become used to seeing protests against small boat arrivals in the UK, but the speed and size of those in Dover and Portsmouth over the weekend felt like something new. The demonstrations were led by a group founded by Daniel Thomas - a friend of far-right activist Tommy Robinson - who described the protests as "only the beginning". Local authorities were seemingly caught out by events. So, will we now see more similar demonstrations? And what can the police do? Gareth Barlow is joined by Sky's Data and Forensics correspondent Tom Cheshire. Have you got a question for This is Why? Email us: why@sky.uk

Why Farage is courting rising star of the French far right

19 min

Lots of 30-year-olds are career-driven, ambitious types - but perhaps none more so than French far-right politician Jordan Bardella. The sharp-suited, clean-cut leader of France’s National Rally party is tipped as a future prime minister – or even president – of one of the UK’s closest allies. He’s also been the star of the show at the Reform party conference in Birmingham – signing a deal on small boats with his admiring counterpart, Nigel Farage. So, who is Bardella? And why would a party like Reform – that denies being far right – consummate such a close relationship? Niall Paterson is joined by Dr Philippe Marliere, a professor in French and European politics at University College London.

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