Radio drama - Politics, Philosophy and Economics by Mark Lawson
MARK Lawson’s searing satire on government negligence plays on the idea that MPs with degrees in PPE (Politics, Philosophy and Economics) failed to provide adequate supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the first wave of coronavirus. Young entrepreneurs, Jacqueline (Macy Nyman) and Stuart (Tom Glenister) own Union Jax, an ironically patriotic novelty souvenir and confectionery company. At the beginning of 2020, orders are soaring, but when the pandemic hits they worry about the impact of social restrictions on their business. In March, their worst fears are confirmed. Out of the blue they receive a phone call from Eugene (Alex Jennings), a specialist adviser to the government, who offers them the opportunity to tender to supply PPE to the NHS, despite having no expertise in the area. As they point out, their line is “knick-knacks and snacks” in the shape of London landmarks or the Royal Family. Eugene assures them that this doesn’t matter. The government likes to emplo