In a recent recording of Matt Forde’s Political Party podcast, three protesters were escorted off the premises for disturbing an interview with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. In a sense, there’s nothing unusual about a political live show being protested, especially not when the political guest in question has been carrying out one of the most divisive immigration crack downs in Labour Party history. What set this moment apart, however, was the audience response. You can hear in the audio recording audience members chanting for the protestors to “Be quiet” and “Get Out”.

Matt Forde’s podcast has long been respected by politicians of all stripes. Whether Labour, Conservative, Green or Reform, Forde has always conducted interviews with an ingenious balance of respectful deference and playful cheek. It’s a rare kind of interview that allows politicians to reveal their human side through lighthearted conversation. From the lowliest MPs to the Prime Minister themself, Forde and his audience have always given been respectful toward his guests, allowing them to speak their piece even on polarising issues. In an age of increased division, the Political Party is special environment that should be celebrated.

Regardless of the merits of the protesters’ arguments, their disruptive approach cut directly against the ethos that Matt Forde has spent years cultivating. It’s consequently unsurprising the audience turned on the protestors, not in hostility to their point but in defence of a space built on listening. It’s a huge credit to the show that its audience refused to let that atmosphere descend, doing what they could to protect a space where people are heard rather than shouted down. It made me proud to be a listener.