Have I Got News For You

It was a busy week of news to discuss, with both President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak having visited Israel for talks with the Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu as the conflict in the Middle East continues, and Labour overturning big Conservative majorities to win Thursday's by-elections in Mid-Bedfordshire and Tamworth.

But it was an unexpected musical surprise from host Bill Bailey that went on to cause a moment of chaos and hilarity in the HIGNFY studio.

Referring to a recent story in which King Charles had advocated for the particular health benefits of playing the bagpipes, Bailey then leant under the desk to bring up his very own set.

"Why does the King think we should be playing the bagpipes?" asked Bailey.

"He's finally lost it?" joked Helen Lewis, before realising the correct answer. "It's very good for your breathing. It's really good for your lungs."

"Yes exactly, that's right. It's good for your health. The Scotsman advised that 'beginners may wish to find a large field to play in'...," joked Bailey, "but I prefer a panel show to practise on!" as he leant under the desk to bring up his own bagpipes, to cheers from the audience.

As Bailey started playing the instrument, it was only a matter of time before chaos reigned, with Paul Merton leaping out of his seat to start a Scottish jig around the studio floor, with Bailey following him round. Cue Ian Hislop jumping up from his seat too, arms aloft and dancing in front of the desks, to the audience's amused delight.

As he took his place back in the host's chair, an out-of-breath Bailey falls to the floor, to laughter from the studio.

"I'm fine, I'm fine!" Bailey protested. "Yeah, it's really good for your health," he jokingly pants.

"I was wondering why we'd never done that before!" laughs Merton.