In The Room

In The Room

The Independent

20 - Mandelson files: 1,504 pointless pages?

Two former Westminster insiders reveal how politics and power really work. 


Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors at No 10? Or who’s the first person on the phone when a Prime Minister lands themselves in hot water? 


Each week former Deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara and Cleo Watson, former political advisor to Theresa May and Boris Johnson, dissect the week’s biggest news, revealing how decisions get made, why they go wrong, and what should happen next. 


In The Room is straight-talking, insider analysis with a dose of humour, every Friday.


This podcast is part of The Independent Podcast Network and is produced in association with Next Chapter Studios.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

20 - Mandelson files: 1,504 pointless pages?
00:00
00:00

Two former Westminster insiders reveal how politics and power really work. 


Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors at No 10? Or who’s the first person on the phone when a Prime Minister lands themselves in hot water? 


Each week former Deputy Cabinet Secretary Helen MacNamara and Cleo Watson, former political advisor to Theresa May and Boris Johnson, dissect the week’s biggest news, revealing how decisions get made, why they go wrong, and what should happen next. 


In The Room is straight-talking, insider analysis with a dose of humour, every Friday.


This podcast is part of The Independent Podcast Network and is produced in association with Next Chapter Studios.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

20-

Mandelson files: 1,504 pointless pages?

Tue, 02 Jun 2026
19-

Ex-SNP chief’s embezzlement scandal and the shady role of money in politics

Wed, 27 May 2026
18-

Burnham or Brexit 2.0: Inside the leadership contest latest

Wed, 20 May 2026
17-

Bonus episode: Burnham's long path to power

Fri, 15 May 2026
16-

Streeting, Burnham, Rayner: Coming for Starmer's job?

Tue, 12 May 2026