Today's guests are local councillors Humaira Ali and Graham Howe, representing Southwark and Wokingham in the UK.

In this episode, Humaira and Graham explore what a council is, what councils do, and how we can improve the system through policy innovation - including whether or not we even need political parties in the first place.

Follow Humaira on Twitter and connect with Graham on LinkedIn.

Terminology:

• Ward - the administrative area of a borough that elects (and is represented by) a councillor (or councillors)
• Statutory instrument - delegated legislative power
• Canvassing - directly engaging with local residents
• Politicking - partisan or politically-driven activity