Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

The Government is being advised to invest in immigration data gathering as record levels of arrivals and departures continue. In February more than 253,000 migrants arrived and about 122,000 left, putting net migration at almost 131,000. Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking that where they come from isn't a problem as long as skills meet labour market needs. He says this is one the of the big data gaps the Government needs to look at, to find out exactly which people and skills are coming in versus who is leaving. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump's 'hush money' trial has begun, and it’s the first time a US president has faced a criminal trial. He's charged with falsifying business records, accused of trying to cover up a $130-thousand hush-money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election. Trump has pleaded not guilty and denied the affair. LA's KNX news presenter Charles Feldman told Mike Hosking that Trump's already using it as a pulpit for his presidential campaign. He says that at rallies Trump talks about how he feels this trial —and others— are politically persecuting him. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has launched more than 200 drone missiles on Israel. Neighbouring nations are calling for restraint, while Jordan, the US and UK military are intercepting attacks. International Relations and Strategic Analyst Paul Buchanan says the strikes are a direct violation of an agreement between the nations. Buchanan tells Mike Hosking hard liners want Israel to retaliate but the United States has told Israel they will not support offensive operations against Iran. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five victims have now been identified as among those killed in a stabbing spree at a Sydney shopping centre, which left six dead. Australia correspondent Donna Demaio tells Mike Hosking 11 people remain in hospital. Many stories are emerging of near misses with the attacker, and of people who tried to protect others. Sydney lifeguard Andy Reid raced to give CPR to some victims. The attacker’s family have released a statement revealing the killer battled with mental health issues. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox has slumped out of contention at the US Masters, currently tied for 20th position. Meanwhile, the Warriors made a lucky comeback in a dramatic golden-point draw against Manly. The Sea Eagles lead 22-20 with three seconds left on the clock, when a post-siren penalty denied Manly the victory. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Minister of Trade Todd McClay visits China hoping to promote New Zealand business and exports. Executive Director of the NZ China Council Alistair Crozier tells Mike Hosking the two countries are very adept at having difficult discussions in the open. NZ exports to China are double what is exported to the US or Australia, and prospects are bright for continued growth. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand is committing to working more closely with the United States. The countries have agreed to work more closely with each other and common allies like Australia, in areas like defence and intelligence. New Zealand's joining the US in financially supporting two initiatives in the Pacific to the tune of $16.4 million. Massey University defence expert John Battersby told Mike Hosking that we're now in a more uncertain Pacific region and things are changing. He says the one thing we don't want is a contest in our front patch between China and the US. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Minister for Space has been working on our space image over in the US. Judith Collins spoke yesterday morning at the Space Symposium as New Zealand’s first Space Minister, putting us on the global stage. She told Mike Hosking that Rocket Lab has done an incredible job at putting New Zealand on the American space map with the work Peter Beck has done with NASA. In 2019 a survey was done on the NZ space sector, valuing it at $1.9 billion, but Collins thinks that by now it should be three or more times larger than that. She said that this is a sector with enormous growth and an extraordinary level of competency. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s concerns the Government's tenancy changes won't affect rent prices. A Bill being introduced to Parliament will bring back 90-day no-cause terminations for periodic tenancies. Labour removed them last term. Housing Minister Chris Bishop believes it'll push down rents. Aspire Property Management managing director Mike Atkinson told Mike Hosking that the Government skipped the removal of deductibility, which would've had more of an impact right now. He says landlords haven't been talking about 90-day notices and believes it wasn't needed at the moment. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US state of Arizona is close to joining Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas in imposing a strict abortion ban. Arizona's conservative Supreme Court has decided an abortion law —first introduced 160 years ago— is now enforceable. US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that abortions are currently legal until 15 weeks of pregnancy. But he says this 1864 law —created before Arizona was even a proper state— would make abortions illegal except if the mother's life is in danger. McCann says it could be enforceable within two months, with Joe Biden calling the law cruel and extreme. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ikea seems to be looking "big picture" as it enters the New Zealand market. The Swedish furniture giant is looking for a "people and culture manager", ahead of its opening at Auckland's Sylvia Park in late 2025. The successful manager will first be tasked with recruiting 400 people. First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson told Mike Hosking that like other big retailers coming here, Ikea is playing the long game. He says they know things will be different in the future, and they're craving global expansion. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health advocates say enforcement officers are needed to clamp down on the illegal vape trade. Reports suggest that the sale of vaping products that don't meet regulation is widespread. Asthma Foundation Chief Executive Letitia Harding told Mike Hosking that retailers selling illegal vaping products need more than a slap on the wrist. She says penalties like fines could help stamp out the dodgy market. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The mainstream media industry is shrinking, and television is leading the way out. Newshub has confirmed its closing on July 5th, while TVNZ is cutting four of major programmes. Media and Communications Minister Melissa Lee says the global market is facing the same difficulties. She's written a cabinet paper on the media sector but hasn't disclosed any details. Former TVNZ news boss and TV3 political editor Bill Ralston told Mike Hosking that the Government could step in and do something about it. He says Melissa Lee has no idea of what she's doing really and is basically saying her hands are tied. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European football fans may be seeing increased security at this week’s Champions League games. A pro-IS media channel has published several images calling for attacks at the stadiums hosting the quarterfinals. UEFA said it was aware of the threats, but the London, Madrid, and Paris games would go ahead as planned, and Ministers in Spain and France have confirmed enhanced security measures. UK and Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that while the outlet who posted the images isn’t officially linked to the Islamic State group, it is thought that they liaise with them. He said that security has been upped across the board, and the London Metropolitan Police Commissioner is confident they have a robust policing plan in place. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Official Cash Rate is likely to remain unchanged for at least the next few months. Most economists expect the Reserve bank to keep the Official Cash Rate unchanged at 5.5% when it comes up for review at 2pm. It's remained unchanged since May last year. Jarden Investment Strategist John Carran says it's 50-50 whether the Reserve Bank cuts the OCR in August or November. The primary focus is on inflation, he said, so that is where they’re looking for the OCR rate. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rideshare company Ola is hitting the brakes in New Zealand. The Uber rival told Auckland customers they won't be able to book future rides from Friday but can still access their app until it shuts down next month. But First Union is worried the loss will give Ola's main rival Uber more control of the gig economy. Strategic project coordinator Anita Rosentreter told Mike Hosking that Ola played a key crossover role for those drivers. She says drivers would go to Ola when they couldn't get work at Uber and it also created competition between the platforms to offer them incentives. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winston Peters has pulled no punches over the need for a two-state solution in Gaza. The Foreign Affairs Minister has reiterated his calls for an immediate ceasefire at the UN General Assembly in New York. He says the two-state solution is the only blueprint for peace, but Israel's seizing of Palestinian territory imperils that. Otago University international relations professor Robert Patman told Mike Hosking that's probably the general feeling among the international community. He says just because Israel is illegally taking territory doesn't mean that can't happen, and Israel has to consider its legal obligations. Meanwhile, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu says a date has been set for Israel to invade Rafah. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A looming financial issue is being highlighted as the country works towards its next emissions budget. The Climate Commission is recommending greenhouse gas is limited by 134-million tonnes between 2036 and 2040. But Victoria University Adjunct Professor Adrian Macey told Mike Hosking that there's still a massive issue if we are going to meet our Paris pledge. He says a government between now and 2030 is going to have to find about $20-25 billion to buy carbon credits. Macey doesn't see any government being able to feasibly do this. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An education expert says the Government's plan to improve students' learning has been successful overseas. Christopher Luxon's unveiled nine Government targets for delivery by 2030. They include increasing student attendance and getting more students to the expected curriculum level. New Zealand Initiative Education Research Fellow Michael Johnstone told Mike Hosking that getting them to turn up will be a challenge but overall, it's a sound plan. He says focusing on things like the science of learning and structured literacy have worked well in places like England. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has brought in immediate changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa. There will now be an English language requirement for low skilled jobs, while fast-tracking will be removed for construction and the franchisee category will be disestablished. Owner and Principal Consultant at Into NZ Katy Armstrong tells Mike Hosking the Government was left with no choice but to make the changes as the high trust model did not work. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new law in Scotland, designed to prevent hate crimes is being targeted by Neo-Nazi and far-right agitators. The groups are making vexatious complaints en masse in an attempt to overwhelm police systems. UK & Europe correspondent Gavin Grey tells Mike Hosking the definition of a hate crime is wide ranging, and an inundated system makes policing the reports difficult for authorities. Meanwhile, support for Ukraine is crumbling in the EU. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Warriors showed their potential over the weekend, beating the Rabbitohs in an impressive 34-4 win. Andrew Alderson updates Mike Hosking on how the team looked. Meanwhile, the Sevens held at Hong Kong stadium for the last time. And, a man known as the ‘hardest geezer’ has run the length of Africa. Russ Cook covered 16,300km as the first person to run from the south to the northern tip of the continent. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AN OIA has revealed police abandoned almost 60 percent of cases reported to them last year. Of 962,521 emergency calls, 572,037 were abandoned. In 2023, reports were up 50 percent from 2019 and of cases reported, 179,957 were closed without any investigation at all. Police Association President Chris Cahill tells Mike Hosking that online reporting has driven up numbers. The Auror retail crime reporting app enables small low-level crime to be reported to police. Less than half of reports made are actual offences. Cahill says the app is fit for purpose. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The deaths of UK aid workers from an Israeli air strike has reignited debate in the UK over the level of support, military aid, and weapons they’re providing Israel. Over 600 legal experts, including three former Supreme Court Justices, have come forward in an open letter calling on the Government to end the sale of weapons to Israel. They say that the UK are risking breaching international law over a “plausible risk of genocide in Gaza”. UK Correspondent Vincent McAviney told Mike Hosking that the Conservative Party is currently have strong arguments over the letter, but Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is so far unwilling to heed the call. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s been a breakthrough in the rules governing whether people who've been scammed are eligible for compensation. The banking sector has launched a review around victim reimbursement. This comes after consumer protection criticism and the threat of regulatory intervention from the government. Consumer NZ boss Jon Duffy told Mike Hosking that although there's a level of personal responsibility, people need to stay alert. He says some of the scams are extremely sophisticated and those who are falling for them are everyday New Zealanders. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Northland mayor is hailing the new law that requires Māori wards to be put to referendum as a win for democracy. The coalition Government is introducing a bill allowing communities to petition for binding polls on Māori ward decisions. It reverses legislation from the previous Government that ensured councils would not have wards overturned through public referendum. Kaipara mayor Craig Jepson told Mike Hosking he believes a lot of Māori would support the new bill. He says the previous laws were condescending to Māori and don't acknowledge them as hard-working people. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ASB Bank is sending the message their predicted infrastructure bill isn't an impossible figure. The bank's new research suggests a trillion dollars will be needed over 30 years. ASB's Senior Economist Mark Smith says it's a huge number and we need to tap into as many funding sources as possible. He says there needs to be greater alignment between providers and funders, the infrastructure has to be fit for purpose and deliver value for money, while meeting climate objectives. Smith told Mike Hosking that the list is huge and the challenges are massive, but he believes it can be done. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bosses are finding Gen Z to be something of a nightmare. They’ve found that they have poor work ethic, miss meetings, and even ditch the company on their first day of work. In contrast, Gen Z workers say their employers don’t understand them. Angela Lim, Clearhead CEO, told Mike Hosking that there’s been a distinct cultural shift, boundaries blurring between personal and work lives. Another shift, she said, is in values. Lim said that young people want their employers to make a stand on social issues, to have more meaning or purpose in their jobs as opposed to just collecting a paycheck. This can cause a lot of friction, she told Hosking, unless both parties are trained in having difficult conversations and know how to incorporate those different work styles. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Students are learning more about our history but less about our place in the world. An Education Review Office report finds schools have been working hard to implement the new Aotearoa Histories Curriculum. It's being taught in three quarters of all schools up to and including Year 10, but to varying degrees. Education Evaluation Centre Head Ruth Shinoda says it takes up a lot of teachers' time making their own teaching resources. She told Mike Hosking that more off-the-shelf content would help support schools to teach the full range of the curriculum. Shinoda says those resources could help teachers have more time to teach other social sciences too, like geography and economics. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's electric vehicle sales have taken another plunge. In March, just over 9% of new passenger cars were EVs, falling from about 27% for all of 2023. Drive Electric Chair Kirstin Corson told Mike Hosking she hasn't written it off, but the market has certainly stalled after losing the clean car discount. She says it's disappointing to see new light diesel vehicles outselling EVs 10 to one, adding this is a massive difference compared to 2023. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A disability charity's launching an urgent appeal that it faces closure after more than 20 years. StarJam provides music and dance workshops for young people with disabilities, designed to foster inclusion and wellbeing. It's trying to raise $100,000 to keep the doors open to its 800 members. CEO Gilli Sinclair told Mike Hosking that they've been hit by the escalating cost of living and reduced funding streams. They put out the appeal yesterday and within the last 24 hours raised over $70,000. Sinclair said they're incredibly positive about the opportunity and have full faith in their ability to see their way through. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finland's gun policy is under scrutiny after a school shooting north of Helsinki. A 12-year-old boy has been detained after the shooting that left one dead and two others, all aged 12, seriously wounded. Finland's education minister says that once the government has a complete picture, they're considering if further measures are needed to protect schools. Europe correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that it's believed the gun used was licensed to a close relative. He says in Finland, anyone over 18 can own a gun after passing checks, but a child over 15 can have licences to use other people's firearms. The 12-year-old thought to be responsible is in the care of social services. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ripple effect of Covid era policy choices are being highlighted as the country's meat industry takes a hit. Silver Fern Farms is reporting a $24 million plus loss for the 2023 financial year compared to it's $189 million profit the previous year. Meat Industry Association Head of Strategy Jason Krupp told Mike Hosking that it's very much an industry issue. He says we're seeing the effects of policy choices in Covid play out in our international markets, hitting us on prices. Krupp says other impacts include high domestic inflation and a weak Chinese market. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The attack at Wairarapa Hospital is being seen as an example of the increasing violence being seen around the country's Emergency Departments. A visitor was struck with a machete on Saturday night, suffering a fractured skull. An incident team's reviewing what happened as a 62-year-old faces charges. Association of Salaried Medical Specialists Executive Director Sarah Dalton told Mike Hosking that it's a real problem. She says it's usually more verbal violence than physical, but members are saying physical violence is on the increase. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why use one plane when two will do? The Australian Energy Minister has defended the use of two separate Royal Australian Airforce jets to fly himself and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to a clean energy announcement in NSW. The announcement involved detailing a $1 billion programme to support solar panels, Albanese calling it one of the most significant announcements made during his term. Australian Correspondent Donna Demaio told Mike Hosking the Air Force made the decision that the airport they were flying into was not strong enough for one large jet, and as such, had to take two. She said the opposition has called it a scandal and is alleging that the PM and Minister were using taxpayer dollars to live the highlife. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK is taking harsher measures to hold social media giants to account. Media regulator ‘OFCOM’, the Office of Communications, plans to issue orders to social media firms that will unlock a child’s account if it’s suspected it played a role in their death or suicide. Failure to comply could see the company fined up to 10% of its global revenue. Social Media Commentator Vaughn Davis told Mike Hosking that there’s no doubt that social media plays a role in bullying and suicide, but it’s mostly the location that’s changing, not the behaviour. Davis said that while firms like to be seen as though they’re working collaboratively to solve the issue, when it comes to digging into the data and using it to understand and prevent suicide, they’re not as interested. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a view that the Government's latest action plan is much more ambitious than the 100 Day Plan. The Government's laid out its check list, to be completed before June 30th. The plan features promises like restoring three strikes, creating an attendance plan, and implementing tax relief. Political Commentator Brigitte Morten told Mike Hosking that they will have to dig deeper to achieve this one. She says while the 100 Day Plan was a lot of repealing, the next step will involve making actual change. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are fears nothing has been done to prevent another Loafers Lodge tragedy. An investigation into boarding house facilities was initiated after last year's fire killed five people. It's found only half the 37 buildings inspected had adequate smoke detectors. Wellington City Missioner Murray Edridge told Mike Hosking that more needs to be done. He says they're just waiting for this to happen again but isn't hopeful anything will change. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National's promise to keep tax cuts is being criticised. Finance Minister Nicola Willis has delivered the Budget Policy Statement and reaffirmed the party's commitment to tax relief. Willis says she's been humbled by how much recent forecasts have deteriorated. Labour Party Finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds told Mike Hosking that instead of focusing on the previous Government, Willis should focus on the cards in front of her. She says when the half year fiscal update was worse than expected, she should have revisited them. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Challenging behaviours in New Zealand classrooms are at critical levels. Over the last 20 years student behaviour has been among the worst in the OECD but new research shows it's worsened over the past two. Education Review Office research has found a quarter of principals have seen students physically harm others and steal property at least every day. Education Hub Founder Nina Hood told Mike Hosking that it's important to draw schools' attention to behaviour. She says it's up to individual schools to create clear expectations, consistent rules, put structures in place, and uphold them. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new trial to treat depression has been given the green light in New Zealand. Ketamine has been used as a treatment around the world in recent years, the drug showing short-term benefits. Otago University is running the trial, combining liquid, slower-release ketamine with psychotherapy in an effort to achieve long term results. The trial is eight weeks long, half the group receiving both ketamine and psychotherapy and the other half only receiving the drug. Senior Lecturer Dr Ben Beaglehole told Mike Hosking that this is a treatment, not a cure. He said that depression is a long term problem with factors that they won't be able to reverse with medication or short-term psychotherapy, but they’re looking to see if the short-term benefits of the drug can be prolonged. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government will today unveil its economic plan for how its priorities will be delivered in the Budget Policy Statement. Finance Minister Nicola Willis will give the speech at one this afternoon. ASB’s Chief Economist Nick Tuffley told Mike Hosking that it’s a bit too early for them to have the hard and fast numbers, and today is more about setting our expectations. We’re also likely to get a sense of how inflation is tracking in regard to the budget, though Treasury likely hasn’t finished their economic forecasts completely. He said that it’s a pretty tough balancing act the Government has to walk with this budget. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A search and rescue effort continues after a bridge collapse in Baltimore. A fully laden container ship rammed into one of the supports and the bridge crumpled into the water below. Those on board the ship had time to raise the alarm and the bridge was closed. At least six people remain unaccounted for. Those missing are believed to be construction workers who were working on potholes on the bridge at the time. US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that it could have a huge economic impact on the state. He says it's one of the biggest ports in the US, specialising in shipping motor vehicles and farming equipment and bringing in over US $1 billion last year. US President Joe Biden says around 850,000 ships go through the port a year and 15,000 jobs depend on it. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An expert says allegations of Chinese cyber-attacks in New Zealand have been at a lower level than our allies. Spy agency the GCSB has tied targeting of our Parliamentary entities in August 2021 to Chinese state-sponsored group APT40. China's ambassador to New Zealand has labelled the accusations groundless and irresponsible. International Relations Expert Geoffrey Miller told Mike Hosking that the UK and US accusations are on a different level. He says the UK alleged China had gotten the information of 14 million voters. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Millions of Australians are looking for a second job as the cost of living continues to bite. A survey by comparison website Finder has found that 32% of respondents, totalling approximately 6.7 million people, felt financially pressured to work more than one job. Australian Correspondent Lesley Yeomans told Mike Hosking that there are jobs available in cafes and retail stores, but it's unknown whether this will bring down the unemployment rate. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kiwi’s eating habits seem to be changing. New research from Mondelez shows that almost half of Gen Z prefer snacking over dinner, and 40% skip breakfast in favour of a snack. On average 27% of people skip breakfast, 13% lower than the results in the study. Nutritionist Nikki Hart told Mike Hosking that we’re definitely seeing a change in behaviour, and it’s not necessarily a good one. She thinks that Covid changed how younger generations approached eating, as staying up later and online classes allow more opportunities to snack. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Salvation Army is welcoming the Government's childcare policy but has some concerns. The Family Boost policy will see parents and caregivers able to claim back up to 25% of childcare costs from July, with a $75 a week limit. Salvation Army Social Policy Director Ian Hutson says there seems to be some bureaucracy, with parents having to show three months of invoices to get the rebate. He told Mike Hosking he's also wondering if it will help the poorest of parents. Hutson says while $75 seems a lot, it won't be enough to cover some people's growing costs. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overwhelmed and under-resourced. An independent review has found major failings in the emergency management response to Cyclone Gabrielle. It finds the system not fit for purpose and "set up good people to fail", during the February 14 disaster. Central Hawke's Bay District Mayor Alex Walker told Mike Hosking that local emergency management teams were under-resourced. She says they needed big and fast mobilisation. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two people have been left dead and three injured after a 100-person brawl in Gisborne on Saturday night. The victims were stabbed at a 21st birthday party. One person is due to appear in court as a homicide enquiry continues. Gisborne Councilor Colin Alder tells Mike Hosking it was an tragic event fueled by alcohol and possible drugs. Alder says there continues to be a strong police presence in the community. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Princess of Wales and her husband, Prince William, have been “enormously touched” by the messages of support received since she announced her cancer diagnosis. Europe correspondent Gavin Grey tells Mike Hosking that the video announcement was written and approved by Kate Middelton herself and sparked a wave of apologies from those who published conspiracy theories around Kate’s absence from the public eye. Meanwhile, Irish politician and higher education minister, Simon Harris is poised to take on the role of Ireland’s youngest prime minister as the leadership contest concluded with him emerging as the sole candidate. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.