RT: Going Undergound
Three times a week Afshin Rattansi and his team go underground to discover the stories that aren't being covered by the mainstream UK media. From GCHQ to Occupy protests, and everything else in between, Going Underground is here to bring a fresh perspective to our audiences around Britain.
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Going Underground Episode 103: Austerity bites at the sharp end of the cuts & HealthWatch tackles unsafe hospital discharges
Dec 30, 2014 12/14
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the cost of austerity and a spike in class-consciousness. Journalist and author Mary O'Hara describes a growing sense of social division and the scandalous rise of food poverty in her nationwide study, highlighting deep discontent with an 'out-of-touch' political class. We ponder the likely outcomes of the secret TTIP deal between the EU and the US, which will allow foreign multinationals to sue Britain, and offer our round up of media misinformation....
Topics: Russia Today, RT, Going Underground, Afshin Rattansi
Going Underground Episode 38: 'Someone died every single day' - Ricky Tomlinson on Shrewsbury convictions
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on what really happened to the Shrewsbury 24. The Royle Family star, Ricky Tomlinson, was one the protesters jailed and while the government has seemingly agreed to release papers about their imprisonment, he says he doubts they'll ever know the truth. The government is wasting over 500 million pounds on stockpiling medicines that haven't been properly tested, and and the Editor of the British Medical Journal reveals that bad results are routinely withheld. We...
Going Underground Episode 76: The British Government is promoting weapons Sales to repressive regimes linked to Al Qaeda, Boko Haram and Al-Nusra
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on BAE systems recent annual general meeting. Andrew Smith form Campaigners Against The Arms Trade attended the AGM, where he questioned BAE on their sales of arms to repressive regimes like Bahrain and Saudi Arabia who fund Al Quaeda-linked groups such as Al-Nusra, and Boko Haram. He also tells us how our government and people like Business Secretary Vince Cable are promoting weapons sales to countries that abuse human rights. The young people of Britain have...
Going Underground Episode 24: Intelligence sell-off, Westminster v Banks & SPINning out of control (E24)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the government's spending U-turns when it comes to arms deals. Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, Vernon Coaker, says that the Tory love affair with privatisation continues, and even UK intelligence could fall into private hands. We also try to find out the state of play between the City and Parliament and who really pulls the strings. Plus, Godfrey Bloom's at it again, but this time it's in the spirit of Christmas.
Going Underground Episode 28: Ethnic exclusion, gambling away & a very festive countdown
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on whether the UK is becoming colour-coded, as a report suggests more and more white people are moving out of minority areas. The government's bringing in new plans to help you spend money on fruit machines. And we've decided to give those poor politicians a break – and countdown some of our own blunders – in a very festive Top of the Flops.
Going Underground Episode 52: Spying on the EU & nuclear-funded education
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the EU's inquiry into GCHQ and NSA spying. Claude Moraes MEP, who co-authored the paper which launched the probe, says mass surveillance could be illegal. We discover why nuclear weapons research is funding the UK's top universities. Jeremy Hunt hires a 'whistleblower-in-chief' to inspect the NHS – but are his checks being carried out while wearing rose-tinted glasses? James Bartholomew, author of a book that reportedly inspired the infamous Bedroom Tax,...
Going Underground Episode 65: ATOS not fit for work, Forex rigging & Universities on border patrol
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on ATOS pulling out of its disability assessment scheme - but not before its controversial methods led to another death. There's a new scandal brewing in the financial world - Forex rigging looks set to cause more damage than Libor ever did. Former financial market advisor to the White House, Dr. Pippa Malmgren, weighs in. Universities are now being told to do the work of the UK Border Agency - in addition to actually teaching students. We look at what the...
Going Underground Episode 80: Is Britain on brink of another financial crash?
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the UK's failing economy with former Treasury advisor James Meadway. He warns that the government growth figures are deceptive – and we could very well be faced with a much gloomier financial forecast. Michelle Obama's gone viral, but only because of her husband's obsession with drones, and Britain seems all too happy to help. The government is planning to spend nearly 300 million pounds to encourage us to support foreign wars. We look at the most...
Going Underground Episode 26: "Atos not fit for purpose" - Dennis Skinner on benefits testing (Exclusive) [E26]
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on how Atos treat the disabled, speaking exclusively to veteran Labour MP, Dennis Skinner. It seems the company is trying to fill a quota, as it pushes the most vulnerable in society back into work. And has the government covered up the truth about the miners' strike at Orgreave? Ian Lavery MP says it's time we heard the truth about the violent crackdown. Plus, love Branston pickle, Cadbury chocolate and everything else British? You're in for a let-down.
Going Underground Episode 113: Islamic State war, & Charles Clarke: 'Why do we need politics?'
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the Islamic State and the prospects of Western intervention in Iraq and Syria. Sami Ramadani, professor at London Metropolitan, warns that the growth of the Islamic State has given the West carte blanche to intervene and the media are using actions such as the beheadings to push public support for war. We speak to Charles Clarke about why politicians can't tackle big issues, as he warns that without change 'faith in democratic politics will be...
Going Underground Episode 22: Torture abroad, homeless at home & vanishing vows (E22)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground to report on the UK government's policy of extraordinary rendition, speaking to MI5 whistleblower Annie Machon. A group of young mothers is threatened with eviction just before the holidays – Jeremy Corbyn MP weighs in. Plus, if you can't remember what the Conservatives promised ahead of the elections, it's probably because they don't want you to!
Going Underground Episode 111: Western media has 'worthy victims and unworthy victims' - John Pilger
Afshin Rattansi goes underground with filmmaker and author John Pilger as he challenges Western mainstream media spin. He warns that "to be informed by it is not an option" because of censorship, omission and distortion of the facts. Whilst other stories overtake it, we find out the death toll in Libya is still rising. We discover why illegal immigrants were prevented from smuggling themselves OUT of Britain. We look at whether Cameron is privatising the NHS by selling it to doctors...
Going Underground Episode 66: Tax for tweets, pensioners in Ferraris & drug addicts for MPs
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on how the new budget will really affect pensions. Will we see sick pensioners in Ferraris, whilst the healthy have to scrimp and save? British embassies around the world are working hard -- on building their Twitter following and Facebook friends! Raheem Kassam of Breitbart, which could be the British Drudge report, explains what diplomats are really up to. We look at the truth behind the headlines in Breaking Views... does Russia have dolphins armed with guns?...
Going Underground Episode 43: Coalition wars, Viagra theft & IDS novel destined for the loo
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on a new coalition aiming to unseat the current one. With over 600 candidates standing in the May local elections, the Chair of the TUSC, Dave Nellist, says they're the real alternative – and not Labour. A group responsible for running part of Guantanamo is being encouraged to grab more contracts in the UK – despite the death of an 84-year-old Alzheimer's sufferer in their care. Plus, the MoD's misplaced some Viagra – about £6,000 worth! And can the...
Going Underground Episode 2: UK drone numbers rocket, payday loan companies cash in & political blunders caught on tape ​[E2]
Thought it was US drones bombing Afghanistan? Think again. Lord Ahmed, from the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Drones, slams UK policy when it comes to using unmanned aircraft. Mike Thomas, aka The Debt Wizard, looks at Milliband's dubious plan to tax payday lenders. We count down the best – or, indeed, worst – mic gaffes from British politicians and royalty. Finally, staff at Grangemouth can breathe a sigh of relief, as their employers have decided to up their PR – using a company...
Going Underground Episode 91: UKIP rise in Europe; the big issue with homeless spikes & who's rejected the Queen? [E91]
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on UKIP's plans to form an alliance in the European Parliament. Neil Hamilton, the party's deputy chairman, says the UKIP's become an important player in UK politics – but where does that leave Europe? And, London's anti-homeless spikes have outraged everyone from the left to the right, but will removing them remove the problem? We look at how the mainstream papers have been misleading you this week. As Angelina Jolie prepares to become a dame, we...
Going Underground Episode 53: Politicians "don't relate to voters' needs" – David Blunkett & UK Gitmo compliance
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on voter apathy with former Home Secretary David Blunkett. He says politicians need to do more to engage with the people, while Afshin questions whether it was the Labour Party's actions in the past that caused the lack of trust. A former US Army major tells us the UK is allowing abuse to go on in the notorious Guantanamo Bay detention camp – and not doing enough to get its last remaining citizen, Shaker Aamer, out. Plus, it seems the UK taxpayer has been...
Going Underground Episode 82: Snowden to get Scottish asylum? UN climate report 'redacted'
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on a petition that has just been launched to grant Edward Snowden asylum in Scotland. Mick Napier thinks the main barrier will be politicians who are afraid to stand up to the US. A climate change expert talks about the new 'alarmist' report from the IPCC, which he claims changed so much of it that he removed his name from the list of authors. How many people are employed by MPs on zero-hour contracts - even by Labour, whose leader called them 'exploitative'? In...
Going Underground Episode 100: Lord Browne talks oil, influence and sexuality & Kerry-Anne Mendoza fights Tory land grab
Afshin Rattansi goes underground in our 100th episode and speaks to former BP boss Lord Browne about the challenges of being openly gay in the business world and the depths of the energy firm's relationship with the Blair government. We ask why the Foreign Office anti-terrorism budget is being slashed while David Cameron warns British Jihadists fighting in Iraq are a security threat. In our media roundup, we ask why the deaths of Israeli settlers are disproportionately covered over those of...
Going Underground Episode 99: Francesca Martinez stands up against austerity & Amnesty's battle with state surveillance
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the People's Assembly comedy fundraiser pledged to ending the austerity agenda. Author, activist and comedienne Francesca Martinez, performing at the Hammersmith Apollo gig on Monday, says addressing suffering in the world means reducing inequality. We explore the political and media bias over Israel's ongoing assault on Gaza and provide a round-up of this week's prime minister's questions. Plus, Amnesty International's deputy director for global...
Going Underground Episode 7: Protests, protests, and more protests. The UK braces itself for civil disobedience [E7]
With massive cuts across all sectors and austerity hitting hard, the People's Assembly is calling for mass civil disobedience, to draw the attention of politicians to the regular people's plight. The UK Occupy movement has its sights set on the BBC this weekend, calling for a massive march against the mainstream media. But not everyone's out in the cold – we reveal who's paying parliament's heating bills this autumn.
Going Underground Episode 25: Osborne's bubble & drinking without hangovers (E25)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the Chancellor's assurances that the economy is under control. Financial analyst, Patrick Young, disagrees, but where does that leave us heading in to 2014? The Fire Brigade Union strike against cuts to their service. Plus, can we really enjoy those Christmas tipples without the dreaded headache? Professor David Nutt is here to reveal his revolutionary invention.
Going Underground Episode 18: Scottish power, forced labor & Chinese whispers (E18)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the Scottish bid for independence with Humza Yousaf, Minister for External Affairs. There may be "more pandas than Tories" in Scotland, but can the SNP guarantee a victory? Plus, we hear how the new workfare scheme could criminalize the unemployed. And it may have been all smiles for the cameras in China, but do they really want the links Cameron & Co are pushing for?
Going Underground Episode 70: Champagne in the City & Help to buy rip-off
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the secret lives of the most powerful people in the UK - the City Boys. Blogger Geraint Anderson says little has changed since the 2008 crash - and champagne is still flowing. Author Danny Dorling says Osborne's Help To Buy scheme is good for votes - but not for voters. The UK's influence in the EU comes under scrutiny, as none of the policies its vetoed have stopped becoming policies!
Going Underground Episode 31: Silenced soldiers & who really runs the Royal Mail?
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on gagging orders slapped on soldiers - even after they've left the armed forces. Investigative reporter, Patrick Henningsen, gives his take on the culture of fear that keeps them quiet. Also, the UK is the only country in the world where the Royal Mail and Post Offices are separate - and the recent sell-off means that the latter might have to close their doors. Plus, BNP's Nick Griffin apparently has nothing to worry about - even as he faces bankruptcy.
Going Underground Episode 45: Britain in a state of decay – Peter Hitchens on multiculturalism and the loss of the Empire
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the state of British politics with Daily Mail columnist Peter Hitchens. From the EU membership to the death penalty, we hear how Britain's facing a bleak future if it carries on with the same politicians. Jeremy Hunt is pushing through a new law that could close down any hospital without much scrutiny – to be able to push more money into failed privatised trusts. We look at how the press has been misleading you the past week. Plus, why a Conservative...
Going Underground Episode 35: Ken Loach on directing democracy & why police ignore islamophobia
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the new parties developing left of Labour. Award-winning film director and member of Left Unity Ken Loach says the democratic process in the UK is not functioning – as no one speaks for the vast majority of people. Islamophobia is on the rise – but who's to blame for the ignorance? We speak to the founder of the Tell MAMA campaign, which aims to measure racial incidents. Plus, why Alex Ferguson may have to sub for Ed Miliband and what you may have...
Going Underground Episode 37: State Surveillance of Amnesty International, Fast Food Nation & Saving X-Factor's Louis Walsh
Afshin Rattansi goes underground to investigate how GCHQ is threatening the work of Amnesty International by spying on the organization and its prisoners of conscience. Amnesty's Alice Wyss explains the NGO's claim against the UK, to be heard at Britain's most secret court, the Investigatory Powers Tribunal. Meanwhile, Paul Tweed, lawyer to Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez and X Factor's Louis Walsh tells us why Britain's new defamation act could lead to Britain's Big Businesses...
Going Underground Episode 71: James Caan is in - on start-ups, first drone arrest & British army 'torture'
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on how small businesses could revive the economy. Former Dragon James Caan explains how investing in start-ups can help communities and GDP growth. Public interest lawyer Phil Shiner sheds light on the alleged abuse and torture of Iraqi citizens by British soldiers. As a British civilian is fined for flying a drone in the UK, a group of artists stages a very visual protest in Pakistan against unmanned aircraft use. Maria Miller's resignation causes chaos at...
Going Underground Episode 46: Billing the immigrants, HS2 'vanity project' & passports for sale
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the new UK immigration bill currently being pushed through, with even Labour doing next to nothing to stop it. But Shadow Immigration Minister David Hanson says his party are just choosing their battles. Not to worry: soon you'll be able to buy your EU passport! At least that's the plan of one British company, provided you've got a million going spare. The planned HS2 network is behind schedule, over budget and running at anything but high speed – and...
Going Underground Episode 73: Shady Transatlantic trade, Fracked councils & UK jails mentally ill kids
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the free trade agreement currently being discussed between the US and EU. Financial guru Patrick Young says the secrecy of the deal could have some serious consequences on Britain's economy. Fracked off with the fracking debate? Some councils appear to be sponsored by the very same companies proposing to drill on their land. A shocking report reveals mentally ill children as young as 10 are being thrown into jail cells because of a lack of hospital beds. We...
Going Underground Episode 101: Education system in meltdown, plus who controls Britain's nuclear weapons?
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on US influence over Britain's nuclear weapons. Guardian columnist Richard Norton Taylor questions whether the UK's weapons are truly independent, and asks if they are breaching the non-proliferation treaty. Christine Blower, general secretary of the NUT, explains why teachers across the country are set to strike, and the battle against the 'incredibly unpopular' Michael Gove. Ken Livingstone compares Ed Miliband to Margaret Thatcher and Clement Attlee....
Going Underground Episode 86: 'Secret payments' to deport migrants; dubious party donors & British towns' corporate takeover
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on revelations that the Home Office has been making secret payments to embassies around the world to obtain passports for deportees. Jeremy Corbyn MP says the amount of taxpayer cash could be huge. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have wound up costing us 30 billion pounds – but is the number much bigger because of the hidden costs of the conflicts? Despite the low turnout in the local and European elections, party donors are gearing up for 2015 - we count...
Going Underground Episode 72: Mayday, May Day! Capitalism's struggle to survive & crackdown on the poor
Afshin Rattansi returns for a brand new series and goes underground on whether capitalism could still survive amidst emerging economies like China, Brazil and Russia. As the world marches in support of workers' rights, we look at how the government is cracking down on the unemployed. David Cameron says the increased use of food banks is because they're advertised better. Plus, we look at some interesting ways the BBC is spending license fee cash. And why the Home Office is banning the UN...
Going Underground Episode 57: Life sentence for UK prisons & hiding the 'wrong' intelligence
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the meltdown of British law and order with leading criminologist, David Wilson. Former US intelligence officer, Elizabeth Murray, says intelligence is routinely hidden when it doesn't fit the political agenda - both in America and in the UK. We discover why the police are trigger-happy when it comes to using tasers on children. Plus, we look at how the press has been misleading you this past week. And democracy in action - how you can choose the next Labour...
Going Underground Episode 54: Insider view on 'special relationship' & From Superman to Super-Assange
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the extent of collusion between the UK and US intelligence agencies. Whistleblower and lawyer to Edward Snowden Jesselyn Radack says controlling those who tell the truth is a way to control the masses. Tom Drake, another NSA whistleblower, explains the dark side of the cooperation between the NSA and GCHQ. A former UK Treasury economist says the government is celebrating recovery too early, amid a housing bubble and low wages. Plus, we look at how the press...
Going Underground Episode 106: Dodgy arms deals, pro-Israel bias & scrapping the tax system
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on Britain's corrupt arms deals. Author Nick Gilby explains that bribery & corruption has permeated the UK's biggest arms deals, and explains why Tony Blair asked investigators to stop their work when he was Prime Minister. Tahra Ahmed, spokesperson for the re-set, a group looking to make Britain fair, ethical and accountable, explains why scrapping the tax system could guarantee a living wage of £7,500 for every person in the country. Afshin also look...
Going Underground Episode 105: Corporate spies, means-testing depression, & self-UNemployed
Afshin Rattansi goes underground in the booming sector of corporate surveillance. Journalist and comedian Mark Thomas discusses his personal experience of being spied on by one of the largest corporations in Britain, and the 'domestic extremist' explains how far company spying has infiltrated protest groups. We examine Ed Miliband's fortunes in our review of parliament's final PMQs before the summer break. We look at how people with depression will be forced to undergo treatment or face...
Going Underground Episode 17: Fracking disaster & parliament put-downs (E17)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the fracking frenzy in the UK, talking to the leader of the Green Party, Natalie Bennett. Plus, is it getting harder to protest in Britain? Author and blogger Richard Seymour gives his thoughts. And, pipsqueaking politicians from parliament – we count down the pettiest put-downs.
Going Underground Episode 30: Tough job finding work & 'shock therapy' for Facebook addicts
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on government claims that unemployment is down, as long-term youth joblessness is on the rise. Labour MP Alison McGovern says Jobcentres in the country aren't doing their job. Investigative journalist Russ Baker says the ISC is a shambles. Plus, wondering why your rail fares have gone through the roof? It might be because we're subsidizing Europe. And, if you think you might be addicted to social media, you might be in for a serious shock!
Going Underground Episode 79: Hacked off with press regulation & immigrants creating (not stealing!) our jobs
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on press regulation, as the replacement to the discredited Press Complaints Commission looks set to start work. Professor Natalie Fenton from Hacked Off campaigns for a more accountable press and says the new body won't solve the inherent problems in the British media. With all the uproar about mass immigration, we look at why the main parties aren't taking into account that foreigners are creating jobs for us. World War III is on the cards – but only if...
Going Underground Episode 27: ​Human Rights debacle & protests on the rise: UK in 2014 (E27)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground vis–à–vis Britain's new position on the UN Human Rights Council - but as we hear from Human Rights Watch, the country's own track record is less than stellar. England should brace itself for more civil unrest in the new year, as pay discrepancies between the rich and the poor continue to drive people to protest. Plus, heard about the housing crisis in Britain? Blame the golfers!
Going Underground Episode 89: ​£30 billion war bill & Britain's rising pollution problem [E89]
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the increasing costs of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan with activist John Rees. But are conflicts good overall for our economy? The rising levels of pollution in the UK have hit an all-time high – killing 30,000 people a year. James Thornton, from ClientEarth, who took the government to court over unsafe air levels, says there's a culture of non-compliance when it comes to bringing down pollution. And has some good actually come out of the recession?...
Going Underground Episode 84: World War gold, Starving Brits & GCHQ 'begged' NSA for more spying
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the enduring power of the petrodollar, which - like its predecessor, the gold standard - is helping foster war all around the world. Tory MP Kwasi Kwarteng says that gold has been responsible for a lot of wars – but the real crisis is in the government printing too much paper money. Save the Children says 5 million youngsters will be starving by 2020 – we look at who's helping feed Britain's hungry. Plus, did GCHQ chiefs ask the NSA for access to more...
Going Underground Episode 44: Stateless Brits, forced adoptions & texting yourself slim
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on Theresa May's plans to leave British citizens stateless. Investigative journalist Patrick Galey says the Home Secretary won't even need to prove someone is a terrorist to impose it – it will be a decision made on probability. Plus, a match made in… somewhere other than heaven – a former Islamist extremist is trying to raise cash for former EDL leader Tommy Robinson. John Hemming MP talks about the curious case of forced adoptions in the UK – and...
Going Underground Episode 47: Police 'frame' protestor, Bob Crow takes on London & Fashion Week nightmare
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on YouTube footage that appears to show a police officer trying to frame a protester. Dr Steven Peers is seen being accused of being drunk and was subsequently charged with drunk driving, despite him being on a pedestrian footpath. We speak to RMT union leader Bob Crow about the London Tube strike, Boris Johnson and the state of British politics – and find out why Crow wants to stand as MEP for London. Plus, it's London Fashion Week, from sweatshops to...
Going Underground Episode 98: Lobbying 'cosy club at the top' & Len McCluskey says to Unite on Labour
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on lobbying in the Palace of Westminster. Tamasin Cave, leader of the Alliance for Lobbying Transparency, says this £2 billion industry is there to make money for the businesses they serve. Len McCluskey, General Secretary of Unite, explains why he still thinks Labour are the best choice for workers. Barclays are in hot water again – this time over possible fraud in their "dark pools." We find out how much taxpayer money George Osborne has spent on his...
Going Underground Episode 20: Press in prison & selling off students (E20)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the issue of whether the Snowden leaks have harmed British security. Former Defence Secretary Liam Fox claims those responsible have put 'our people' at risk. Plus, students are up in arms over new plans to privatize their loans. University of London Union president, Michael Chessum, explains why. And how you could be lucky enough to land a six-month unpaid internship!
Going Underground Episode 81: Drone warfare & a human face to violence with Ross Kemp
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the realities of foreign conflict with award-winning documentary maker Ross Kemp. He explains the importance of reserving judgment and how drone warfare is not the way to solve international crises. Divisive figure Narendra Modi's just been elected Indian PM – India expert Daya Thussu explains the implications. Plus, is the US funneling millions into a mass surveillance base near Milton Keynes? Prince Charles in the eye of an international storm after...
Going Underground Episode 97: UK's 'Summer of Resistance' and is Goldman Sachs controlling British interest rates? [E97]
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on a law that could have prevented the financial crash that has put millions on the poverty line. Liam Halligan, Telegraph columnist and editor of Business New Europe says that governments are still pandering to bankers, and that Bank of England Governor Mark Carney 'doesn't have it in him' to properly regulate them. Plus, as UK activist groups continue to protest against the coalition's program of cuts, will this summer's 'wave of resistance' force...
Going Underground Episode 33: Inside GCHQ, baffling BBC & stealing from the young
Afshin Rattansi goes underground with the former head of GCHQ, Sir David Omand, getting to the bottom of the Snowden leaks and Iraq war intelligence. Is this the worst time to be young in Britain? Author Danny Dorling brings the facts and figures. The BBC announces new plans to cut down the politics and bring on the fashion. Plus, what kind of archaic laws could still get you thrown behind bars? And why is the government supporting the adult film industry?
Going Underground Episode 42: Inside Britain's prisons, cash-crazy MoD & the answer to Benefits Street
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the real conditions inside Britain's prisons. And who better to give insider knowledge than Vicky Pryce, Chris Huhne's ex-wife, who went to jail for perverting the course of justice. Now a campaigner for prisoner rehabilitation, she's also landed herself a role as Vince Cable's new advisor! The MoD is charging you millions to sort out its IT mess. Plus, how the rich are siphoning off more money than those on benefits – and the website that's out to set...
Going Underground Episode 41: Cameron v Snowden & water cannons for rioters
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on Cameron's apparent lack of understanding of public outrage at the Snowden leaks, while Labour MP Dave Lammy talks Iraq war regrets and the need for reform in the Independent Police Complaints Commission. Also, as the Home Secretary mulls arming riot police with water cannons, it turns out some think they'd be better off with machine guns. Plus, what the Lobbying Bill – or the Gagging Law, as it's affectionately referred to – means for future UK elections....
Going Underground Episode 96: Miliband 'no George Clooney' says Diane Abbott & Owen Jones on socialism for the rich [E96]
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on whether Labour are paying too much attention to opinion polls, as Labour MP Diane Abbott criticizes her party for copying the Tories. Guardian columnist Owen Jones tells us that the British left has lost its way in Britain, and it needs to fight harder for better wages, living conditions and a more equal society. Also, who are the elites in the US and Europe that are forcing governments to adopt destructive and dangerous economic policies? Plus Ed Miliband...
Going Underground Episode 59: Tony Benn's last TV interview
Tony Benn died on Friday aged 88. Here, we give our viewers the chance to watch his last ever interview, when he invited Afshin Rattansi to talk to him at his home. Tony Benn said memorably that first they ignore you, then they say you're mad, then DANGEROUS, then there's a pause and then you can't find anyone who disagrees with you. He became a national treasure in later life even as he continued to rail against imperialism, austerity and capitalism. Afshin Rattansi also goes underground on...
Going Underground Episode 5: Protest? What protest? The media blackout on London's recent demo & 'reasonable force' when it comes to police brutality [E5]
Guy Fawkes night saw massive protests worldwide – including on the streets of the UK. But the mainstream media barely touched the story, much to the anger of those taking part. We discuss police tactics in dealing with protesters with activist Charlie Veitch. And, as Remembrance Sunday approaches, the great White Poppy versus Red Poppy debate heats up.
Going Underground Episode 88: ​UKIP 'monster', drone delay & England's embarrassment [E88]
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the rise of UKIP. The founder of the party, Alan Sked, warns that it has become a monster and was never meant to be a right-wing party. Alice Ross, Drone Project Leader at the Bureau for Investigative Journalism, looks at the £135 million the government paid for 5 reaper drones in 2010 -- which have only just become operational. We introduce Healthcare at Home, a company accused of failing to get medicines to NHS patients on time. We take a look at the...
Going Underground Episode 48: Iraq war created 'world disorder' - Bianca Jagger exclusive
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the Iraq war and violence against women with leading human rights advocate Bianca Jagger. Resilient in her fight for equality, she says she'll never forgive Tony Blair for taking the country to war and wants to keep fighting to ensure women everywhere have the same rights as men. Also in the programme, Scottish Health Secretary Alex Neil defends his stance on not launching an inquiry into NHS Scotland – despite a string of fraud accusations. Plus, why...
Going Underground Episode 8: UK army torture claims, sneaky justice bill & and why flying to work is cheaper [E8]
As the UK armed forces face allegations of torture by troops abroad, we grill the former head of the army about how much he knows on the issue. Not much, it would seem. Plus: guilty until proven innocent? Jeremy Corbyn MP tells us the Tories are trying to sneak through amendments which will make it harder for those wrongfully convicted to get compensation. Finally, could it actually be cheaper to live in Barcelona and commute every day to your job in London?
Going Underground Episode 69: Iraq abuse 'cover-up', economic myths & MP's banking exclusive
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the al-Sweady inquiry into the mistreatment and murder of Iraqis by British soldiers. Editor and journalist Richard Norton-Taylor says the probe has already shown the MoD to be arrogant and secretive. Professor Emeritus John Weeks explains why modern economics is based on a myth. Plus, we introduce James Duddridge, the MP who gave a community surgery exclusively for Halifax customers. Breaking Views reveals the truth behind last week's headlines. And Michael...
Going Underground Episode 63: New wave of austerity, fighting for truth & how MSM missed the plane
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the next stage of austerity with Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee. Has Osborne's budget done anything to tackle the massive amount of cuts this government needs to undertake? A staggering new figure reveals just how many of us depend on zero-hours contracts – and it could just be a conservative estimate. We look at how the mainstream media has missed the point when covering the search for the MH370 airliner. Plus, while the government tries to clamp down...
Going Underground Episode 102: Fashion Week-ileaks, Israel's spin-doctors & how to win the World Cup
Afshin Rattansi goes underground to discuss plans by designer and activist Ben Westwood to bring London Fashion Week to Julian Assange at the Ecuadorian Embassy. Vivienne Westwood's son hopes to highlight the WikiLeaks fugitive's plight and defend our democratic right to a moral conscience. We investigate the communications group BICOM, which shapes much of Israel's favorable media and political coverage, and offer our round-up of prime minister's questions. Plus, ahead of Sunday's...
Going Underground Episode 11: UK Police State? 'New law would ban protests, even imply thought crime' (E11)
In this episode of Going Underground, Afshin Rattansi talks to blogger Scriptonite on the new ASBO bill which could restrict protests around the country. The new law grants local authorities, police and even private security firms sweeping powers to bar citizens from assembling lawfully in public spaces. Afshin also looks at Britain's plans to train Myanmar's army on human rights and fact that not all UK citizens know Britain's already in the the EU
Going Underground Episode 39: Bursting the capitalism bubble & National health surveillance
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the Tories' recent announcements that the economy is recovering. But even those within the party disagree – Steve Baker MP tells us it's a lovely story, but all Osborne's done so far is produce chaos. The surveillance state is upon us again: this time it's the NHS, planning to sell off everyone's personal data to private care companies – but what does it mean for patients? Plus, we reveal where Tony Blair's been making his millions. And are...
Going Underground Episode 51: Snowden 'on kill list', Slumdog billionaires & Daily Mail scrounging from EU
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the CIA's operations in Britain – and veteran CIA analyst, Ray McGovern, says the special relationship has gone too far. They question whether Dr. David Kelly really committed suicide and why Snowden could be next on Obama's kill list. It turns out the Daily Mail doesn't mind Europe all that much – but only when it comes to their editor receiving euros to maintain his estate. Riches to rags: why London's 'Billionaires Row' is rotting away....
Going Underground Episode 110: Bonnie Greer on artists challenging austerity, Barclay's 'poisoned culture' & America's MH17
Afshin Rattansi goes underground with playwright and novelist Bonnie Greer to talk art, politics and why the CIA infiltrated black student movements in the sixties. The Daily Mail's city editor Alex Brummer tells us how big bonuses and deregulation tore banks away from the rest of the economy, making them a law unto themselves. While the West imposes new sanctions on Russia and blames Putin for the crash of flight MH17, we look at the time when American soldiers shot down an Iranian passenger...
Going Underground Episode 34: Missing aid money, sky-rocketing salaries & cyber revolution
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the aid amounts the UK sends abroad. Pauline Latham MP says it's time money stopped going to China – which has just started investing over here in Britain! Part-time nurses are earning unprecedented amounts of cash, as those hired by the NHS face more cuts. Internet activist Myles Dyer says it's time the Twitter revolutionaries got more attention – as their message is spreading quicker than the mainstream. Plus, it looks like the government is making a...
Going Underground Episode 108: NHS privatisation, Israeli goods & the death of the middle class
Afshin Rattansi goes underground as key health unionsballot for strike action.The head of the British Medical Association explains how privatisation is not the answer to NHS woes. New Economics Foundation fellow and former government advisor David Boyle tells us why we should worry about the fate of the middle classes as the 99 percent continue to pay for the one percent. We examine the everyday brands that are funding Israeli state terror and how Britain is looking to America to stave off an...
Going Underground Episode 78: 'Never trust the government' - punk veteran Vivienne Westwood on fracking & environment
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the government's love affair with facking with punk pioneer and activist Vivienne Westwood. She calls for more focus on renewable energy and blames corporate interests for the current problems with climate change. Tired of the bedroom tax debate? One think tank says the best way to solve it is to abolish the Department for Work and Pensions! Plus, David Cameron gets lyrical about Gary Barlow's tax avoidance at this week's PMQs. And, George Osborne...
Going Underground Episode 3: Could all wars suddenly become undemocratic? Plus, probation privatisation & finance fails [E3]
George Galloway talks about the Government's apparent U-turn on voting for war. We look at why G4S and Serco are looking likely to take over the probation service, despite their recent track records. And how much can we trust financial regulators when they seem to fail at regulating anyone – including themselves? We count down some of their biggest flops.
Going Underground Episode 87: 'Doomsday scenario': Is the UK government trying to derail net neutrality?
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on a story making big headlines across the Atlantic – net neutrality. But our own government seems suspiciously quiet on the subject, and leader of the Pirate Party UK Loz Kaye says it's because politicians want to retain the power to control the internet. Amidst D-Day commemorations across the continent, historian and author of War Horse Michael Morpugo warns against glorifying war. Plus, the Chilcot inquiry is set to review some heavily-redacted evidence:...
Going Underground Episode 62: Bingo budget, Bill Oddie's badgers & Russian troops on British shores?!
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on George Osborne's latest budget, announced earlier this week. Ryan Bourne, from The Institute of Economic Affairs, says that while pensioners are finally getting looked after, the government is getting the benefits system wrong. Not content with drones in the skies over Afghanistan and Yemen, the government is now flying them over England too! Are Russian warships on the way to Britain? We look at what the mainstream media missed this week at Prime...
Going Underground Episode 19: UK's secret drone program & soundtrack to austerity (E19)
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on the UK's drone deal with Israel – a severe sting for the UK taxpayer at £1 billion. A new report by War on Want claims the deal unmasks the UK's compliancy with Israel's aggression in Gaza. Musician, Captain SKA, waxes lyrical about an anthem for the austerity protests. Lawyer, Mark Lewis, opines on phone hacking and SOCA's rebranding. Plus, Richard Branson's relentless PR machine ploughs full steam ahead, notwithstanding the risk of cashing in on the...
Going Underground Episode 50: Priceless PR, a professional's take on TV & thatcher's rising body count
Afshin Rattansi and veteran actor Martin Shaw go underground on the state of British TV and whether the legal system is due an overhaul. The Brit awards may have been trending on Twitter on Wednesday, but is dodgy PR the reason? A BUPA whistleblower exposes the state of the country's care homes – and the conditions that the elderly are forced to live in, as private companies make millions. It looks like the government's finally lost its patience with ATOS – but their rumored replacement...
Going Underground Episode 117: Meat free Mondays, cash for complaints, & indyref press
Afshin Rattansi goes underground on climate change. Greg Barker, a former climate change minister, explains how giving up meat one day a week could save the world, and the promise of new technology when it comes to reducing carbon footprint. Shantha David, a solicitor with Unison, explains why they are bringing a case against the government for charging people to complain about their employers. We introduce John Manzoni, who oversaw oil refinery disasters, health and safety violations, and is...
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