To kick off LBC’s week-long guest series, former Conservative MP Penny Mordaunt stepped in for James O’Brien to tackle one of the most divisive issues in British politics: the small boats crisis. On the same day Reform UK unveiled their plans on illegal immigration, Penny asked listeners: Do you believe today’s politicians are capable of solving it—and if not, why not?

Penny then widened the discussion, posing whether the UK is still a capable nation. From the NHS to benefits, shoplifting, the exodus of wealth from London, and even trolling from our closest allies. Penny asked listeners whether Britain’s institutions—and national pride—are faltering.

And, Penny turned her attention to an issue close to her, the hospitality sector, where half of UK job losses are now concentrated. As entry-level roles disappear, is government policy stifling opportunity in what has long been a barometer of the wider economy?

This episode was recorded on the 26th of August. Catch James O'Brien weekdays from 10 am on LBC.