Python Ignoring Invalid Distributions

I have been using my Mac Studio to complete some work in Python (which I normally do in Linux) and recently I got this error which has completely stopped all development as venvs will no longer work correctly:

WARNING: Ignoring invalid distribution ...

This occurs for me on every install of any version of Python installed using any of the standard methods. I've tried all the main points of advice on knowledgeable forums, but the difference between Python on Sequoia and Python on Linux is enough such that I am at an end of my debugging knowledge. I've even attempted to blast away any System Python changes with a recovery reinstall, but the problem persists. I've done almost exactly the same setup on my MacBook Air and it is fine ... but the Studio is now unavailable for Python development.

I'm wondering if I should just blast away everything on the machine and go through the process of doing a clean install. Asking here so I can avoid the pain of doing that!