麻豆约拍

Steve Richards of The Independent looks behind the scenes at Westminster before MPs head off to far flung cities for the party conferences.

With Ed Miliband's leadership under the spotlight, two former political advisers discuss whether it's possible for a leader in the doldrums to turn things around.

What are the prospects for the Liberal Democrats as they gather for their conference in Glasgow? The party's leading rebel, Andrew George, and Nick Clegg's parliamentary aide, Duncan Hames, assess the future.

This week came better growth figures - in line with the predictions of some economists, but suggesting others are wrong. Ruth Lea and Paul Johnson consider the art of economic forecasting.

And the former Chief Whip Andrew Mitchell and Louise Ellman discuss whether committee chairs are becoming more powerful than cabinet ministers.

The Editor is Mandy Baker.