12 chapters across the catalog
The hosts open the program by discussing the literary history of the Bobbsey Twins and Tom Swift book series, noting the 1910 origins of the latter. They transition to the significance of November 5th, referencing the Gunpowder Plot against the British Parliament and its modern cultural depiction in the film V for Vendetta.
Netflix, Stranger Things Podcast, and Daylight Saving Time
One of the hosts is flying to Amsterdam to participate in a promotional podcast for the new season of Netflix's "Stranger Things." The trip involves a direct British Airways flight from Austin to London. Meanwhile, the European Parliament is preparing for a vote to potentially abolish daylight saving time, a move the hosts support.
British Parliament Debate, Trump State Visit Petition
Members of the British Parliament debated a petition signed by nearly 2 million citizens to downgrade Donald Trump's planned state visit to the United Kingdom. Opponents in the Labour Party and Scottish National Party labeled the President "protozoan" and a "petulant child," while Tories argued that insulting the U.S. President would damage post-Brexit trade prospects. The debate centered on whether a formal welcome by the Queen would embarrass the Crown.
British Parliament Debate on Article 50 and Brexit
A recording from the British House of Commons features a debate on the timing of triggering Article 50 to begin the Brexit process. The government reaffirms its commitment to triggering the article by March 2017, despite attempts by "Remainers" to delay the process. The speaker emphasizes that the public's verdict in the referendum must be respected without a second vote.
The British Parliament debated a petition signed by nearly 600,000 people seeking to ban Donald Trump from the United Kingdom for alleged hate speech. Members of Parliament used the session to label Trump a "buffoon" and a "wazzock," while debating whether ridicule or a formal ban is the appropriate response to his rhetoric.
The anti-EU UKIP party won its second seat in the British Parliament, a story that received significant coverage in the Netherlands due to parallels with Dutch politician Geert Wilders. The victory involved a former Conservative member switching sides to align with shifting voter sentiment.
The British Parliament voted against joining military action in Syria, a move that surprised Prime Minister David Cameron. This legislative rejection has left the United States without its primary military ally for the proposed strikes. Meanwhile, Senator John McCain criticized the United Nations for its neutrality and refusal to apportion blame for the chemical attacks, while also suggesting the UK is no longer a top-tier world power.
British Parliament Voting Procedures, John Kerry's "Tell"
The hosts examine the unique voting procedures of the British Parliament, including the "unlocking" of doors for division lobbies. They also discuss a perceived "tell" in Secretary of State John Kerry's body language, claiming he sticks his tongue out after telling a lie, which they find "freaky" and "reptilian."
British Parliament, William Hague and Two-State Solution
Rehearsed questions in the British Parliament regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict are analyzed. Foreign Secretary William Hague discusses the closing "window of opportunity" for a two-state solution due to Israeli settlement expansion. The hosts argue these sessions are scripted performances intended to maintain a diplomatic status quo while facilitating arms sales.
The hosts discuss a clip from the British Parliament where MP John Redwood uses the term "Euroland" to describe the Eurozone. They embrace the term as a fitting description for the 17 countries using the Euro, comparing it to a theme park that is increasingly expensive and dysfunctional.
C-SPAN Coverage of British Parliamentary Hearings
Criticism is directed at C-SPAN for broadcasting British parliamentary committee hearings regarding the Rupert Murdoch phone hacking scandal. The argument is made that C-SPAN should focus exclusively on the United States government rather than international proceedings.
Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, British Tradition
During President Obama's address to the British Parliament, the presence of the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod drew attention. The ceremonial staff, which appeared white rather than black, was criticized for its aesthetic similarity to a curtain rail. The role is a traditional part of the parliamentary process in the United Kingdom.
