The general secretary of the Rail, Shipping and Transport (RMT) union was on the show on Friday night, having been invited after becoming a media celebrity thanks to his many TV and radio interviews explaining why strikes are happening. In a trailer for the pre-recorded show, Mr Lynch became the master of a joke related to queuing to see the late Queen in state. Presenter Richard Ayoade put it on the panel which had Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield queuing with the audience, it would have boosted the record numbers. Ian Heslop chimed in saying: “No, it was slightly down.” Asked why the numbers weren’t as high as estimated, Roisin Conaty said it was because of “the internet” and “people have other things to do like watch it on the telly”. Paul Merton, who sits next to Mr Lynch on the satirical show, said: “A live stream, ironically.” Mr Ayoade continued: “In the past people have traveled to London from all over the country but it’s a lot harder to travel these days isn’t it?” The joke left Mr Leeds, who wore an RMT lapel on the BBC show, scrambling in his seat. He didn’t answer as the audience laughed.
