The News Agents

The attacks on Hezbollah operatives were as audacious as they were incredible. Yesterday, targeting four thousand potential terrorists remotely through their pagers. And further attacks today using handheld radios. But when the dust has settled, how will the world view this move? Was it justifiable? Or a breach of international law? What are the ethics of targeting so large a group? And was it a breach of Lebanese sovereignty? Jon and Emily talk to former Newsnight defence editor Mark Urban, and Professor of International Law, Philippe Sands.Tickets to see the News Agents Live on Stage at the Royal Albert Hall go on sale this Friday, September 20th. They will be available via Global Player at the link below.https://articles.globalplayer.com/2GXq4afyiJDx1xqP7ZMiP9ZVkWQEditor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Donald Trump has blamed Kamala Harris and Joe Biden's rhetoric for the latest assassination attempt, calling them 'Marxist communists'. So how is the rhetoric changing in American politics? And is political violence on the edge of tipping over again?Later, Keir Starmer is cosying up to Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. And Jon asks about those donations for the Prime Minister's wife's clothes. Tickets to see the News Agents Live on Stage at the Royal Albert Hall go on sale this Friday, September 20th. They will be available via Global Player at the link below.https://articles.globalplayer.com/2GXq4afyiJDx1xqP7ZMiP9ZVkWQEditor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

It's the second attempt on Donald Trump's life in just two months, once again calling into to question the security services and the state of gun violence in America. But will this change the course of the US elections?And, why did JD Vance just admit to making up the story about immigrants eating cats and dogs in Springfield, Ohio?Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

This week on The Sports Agents, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman are joined by former England rugby captain Will Carling to discuss the future of the game, Spencer Matthews pops by to chat about his successful challenge of running 30 marathons in 30 days and Executive Producer: Adonis PratsidesSenior Producer: Adem WatermanVideo Producer: Sam TrudgillSocial Media Editor: Calum ScotlandTom Hughes is Editor for The News Agents podcast networkVicky Etchells is the Commissioning Editor for Global You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The Sports Agents".And, the Sports Agents now have merch!

It was the interview that shook the monarchy and saw the downfall of one of its most senior members.A brand new drama based on that interview, titled “A Very Royal Scandal” is set to be released on Amazon next week, so Lewis sits down with Emily to talk about Prince Andrew, the shockwaves it triggered, and the new drama. Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Two days after former president Donald Trump claimed immigrants are eating cats and dogs, and babies are being executed after birth, Jon and Lewis discuss how deep-rooted conspiracy theories have become in American politics. They're joined in the studio by Gabriel Gatehouse, whose book 'The Coming Storm' delves deep into the world of conspiracy, to find out just how much it is dominating American political discourse.So why is America so pre-disposed to conspiracy? How will it affect the election? And just how much is it tearing American society apart?Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Donald Trump was either up early this morning or didnt go to bed at all after his encounter with Kamala. He appeared on Fox News as they were discussing last night's debate performance - and claimed that 'polls' had called him the winner by 80 percent. Does he really believe it went well? Will he be convinced to do another one in October? And whose mind will have been changed by the performance of either candidate. There was no rowing back from the 'pet eating migrants' line. No softening on his stance on executed babies. But he took the news of Taylor Swift's endorsement of his opponent by predicting she would 'suffer for it in the marketplace'. For the first time since July 5th all three News Agents are in the studio together to discuss the fall out. And ask what now for Labour after the cuts to winter fuel bill passed with only one rebellious MP.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulDon’t forget you can also subscribe to our other News Agents podcasts via the link below:https://linktr.ee/thenewsagents You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The Presidential debate on Tuesday night was everything that team Harris were praying it would be. Trap after trap laid for Donald Trump which he appeared to walk into. His areas of strength - the economy and immigration - didn’t really get off the ground. She baited him on his rallies and his racism. And he got very cross. Moments after the debate ended the Democratic nominee won the support of arguably the most powerful woman alive - Taylor Swift. How will this shift the electoral race?Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Rory SymonDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/You can also buy your very own News Agents merch at the link below...https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Health Secretary Wes Streeting has told Lewis that the wishes of the parents of the babies murdered by Lucy Letby must be respected. And yet - as the inquiry into the hospital culture surrounding those deaths opens in London today, we ask why so many people are refusing to believe the verdict delivered by a jury after a ten month trial. Have we become too distrustful of our institutions? Or is it endemic to this particular case and context? Journalist David Aaronovitch joins us to discuss the growing internet conspiracies.Later, the French rape trial that has confounded public opinion - the husband who admitted to drugging his own wife over the course of a decade to invite men to rape her.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The (brat) summer was Kamala's. The Democratic nominee had two months of rave press reviews and sell out crowds. And a convention that left many remarking that the energy and momentum of the race was with her. But two months out from the election - and two weeks before the first ACTUAL postal votes are cast - Harris and Trump are now neck and neck in key swing polls. What's going on there? Later, winter fuel for pensioners. Was the cut to universal allowance a mistake? A sign of strength? Or of battles to come? - MPs vote tomorrow.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

This week on The Sports Agents, Gabby & Mark were joined by former Chelsea F.C manager Emma Hayes to discuss her brand new book,  ‘A completely different game: My Leadership playbook’.There was a half full Lord's in the cricket - why may that have been?And the team digest how the new Manchester United exec board are getting on after their 3-0 loss to Liverpool. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

The News Agents comes to you live from Ed Davey’s back garden. This is not a euphemism. The Lib Dems are a big force in British politics once again, the most significant third party force in parliament for a century. Davey achieved this breakthrough by doing some very odd things including bungee jumping, paragliding and consistently falling into water.After one of the most curious election campaigns in history, Lewis sits down with the Lib Dem leader, not long before the party’s annual conference. They talk about what he was up to with all the stunts, what he wants to do with his party’s new clout in parliament and whether there’s even further to go: whether they could yet supplant the Conservatives as Britain’s second party.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulWin a money-can’t-buy meet-and-greet with Jon, after enjoying a live podcast recording by pre-ordering a copy of his new book Strangeland here…https://www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-drawYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The first round of the Conservative leadership race has seen Priti Patel leave the race, and Robert Jenrick take poll position. Could he be the Conservatives next leader? And what kind of Tory is he? We talk to Tory watcher and author Ben Riley Smith from the Telegraph. Later, is Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu in trouble? There is increasing desperation on the streets of Israel after the deaths of more hostages. The public mood has turned against the government and its ongoing war on Gaza. What happens now? We speak to the author and commentator Ayala Panievsky about how domestic politics is shaping Neyanyahu's military strategy.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulWin a money-can’t-buy meet-and-greet with Jon, after enjoying a live podcast recording by pre-ordering a copy of his new book Strangeland here…https://www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-drawYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The tragedy at Grenfell seven long years ago was one that was entirely avoidable. That was the conclusion today of the inquiry, which stated baldly that those 72 deaths in a high rise fire in west London would not have happened without a culture of dishonesty, greed on the part of the construction companies, and denial by the government who knew the dangers of flammable cladding but did nothing. What happens now for the families of the victims? Does this give closure? Or provoke rage? And will anyone face prosecution for the part they played? Lewis and Emily take you back to the night it happened, and their reporting in the days and weeks afterwards - that interview with PM Theresa May - and ask what now for the hundreds of thousands of people who still live with the consequences of buildings that are deemed unsafe.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulWin a money-can’t-buy meet-and-greet with Jon, after enjoying a live podcast recording by pre-ordering a copy of his new book Strangeland here…www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-drawYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Actor Michael Sheen joins us today to discuss his latest role playing a royal - Prince Andrew in Amazon's three part drama 'A Very Royal Scandal', based on the Newsnight interview Emily did with him in 2019. He tells us what he privately decided about Prince Andrew's character before he accepted the part - and he tells us what he thinks of Keir Starmer's early days and what needs to needs to happen politically. He also takes us back - metaphorically - to his home town Port Talbot - which has seen the docking of its final ship in the steel making business for which it was formerly famed.There's also competition to win a special prize to come into the studio and watch the News Agents in person. All you need to do to enter is pre-order a copy of Jon's book from the link below.https://www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-drawAndy you can now buy your own News Agents merch in our online store https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agentsEditor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/

Germany's hard right party the ADF have made astonishing gains in two regions of the country - the first time the hard right has seen substantial electoral gains since the Nazi era. What is propelling the rise? And what do the governing coalition parties do to combat them. Later, we sit down with Nadhim Zahawi - former chancellor, and former child refugee to talk about his party's rhetoric on immigration. And why he owed the treasury 5 million pounds of unpaid tax. Also, excitingly, there's a competition to win an special prize to come into the studio and watch the News Agents in person. All you need to do to enter is pre-order a copy of Jon's book from the link below.https://www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-draw Andy you can now buy your own News Agents merch in our online store https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agentsEditor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/

This Friday, Jon and Lewis answer your questions. What's behind Biden and Obama's "complicated" relationship? Do members of the royal family vote? And which state will be the most interesting battle ground in the US election?And, win a money-can’t-buy meet-and-greet with Jon, after enjoying a live podcast recording by pre-ordering a copy of his new book Strangeland here…www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-drawEditor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob PaulYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The disastrous "mini budget" of Liz Truss' short time in Downing Street will go down in history. But did she really consider stopping the NHS treating cancer patients in a bid to find the savings to clean up the fallout?Jon and Lewis speak to political biographer, Sir Anthony Seldon, about the dramatic 49 days of the shortest serving British Prime Minister.Editor: Tom HughesProducer: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Keir Starmer is in Berlin, this time for some real politics, not a football match. He’s meeting German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, unveiling a new UK/Germany defence agreement. Later he’s heading to Paris to meet President Macron. The new government is on a charm offensive, with much lofty talk of a reset of UK/EU relations post-Brexit. But is that really possible? How much is just vibes? Lewis and Jon analyse what has happened and crucially what has not happened, and are joined in News Agents HQ by German Ambassador Miguel Berger.We also talk about whether there’s any truth that Mr Mandelson might be going to Washington and Jon is shilling for his book again. What fun.To enter Jon’s competition head over to www.waterstones.com/win/strangeland-prize-draw to find out more Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Keir Starmer has made his first major speech as Prime Minister and he had an uplifting message for the public: things can only get worse.Jon and Lewis, firmly ensconced back in News Agents HQ analyse what the PM is up to and ask whether British politics can really sustain another project built on pessimism. They also discuss rumoured changes of the Labour Party’s leadership rules (if that doesn’t make you click, what will?) and Oasis’ imminemt return to the stage. Jon, predictably, swears from the start.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie IndgeDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

This week on The Sports Agents... Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton's new 31-year-old manager - the youngest in Premier League history - joined Gabby for an exclusive interview. He talks his meteoric rise, embracing the culture on England's South Coast, looking forward to coming up against Pep Guardiola and more. Then on Thursday, with ITV's Mark Pougatch as our special guest host, we examined the Raheem Sterling situation at Chelsea and if their unusual recruitment strategy will ever actually work? Journalist Matt Hughes, applied sport finance expert Rob Wilson and the former Man City defender Nedum Onuoha joined in. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Kamala Harris pledged a "new way forward" for America as she formally accepted the Democratic party nomination for president at the DNC in Chicago.She makes history as the first black and Asian-American woman to lead a party's presidential ticket.But did the American people actually learn enough about Kamala and her politics last night? Will she need to do and say more if she's to beat Donald Trump in November's election? Or will simply being the "anti-Trump" candidate be enough? Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Rory SymonDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

We’ve been on the road in Indiana, which isn’t far from the DNC in Chicago and yet feels so distant. Has Kamala Harris’ introduction to the nation reached heartland America? We find a state full of friendly people who have just stopped talking to each other, of not just competing politics, but parallel realities. And back in the United Centre, the previously little known Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has made his keynote speech. Jon has all the reaction from the Democrat bigwig.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Rory SymonDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The Obama's are back, and last night they enchanted the Democratic Party National Convention in Chicago.They took the fight to Donald Trump. And they did it with glee. They were laughing in the face of the Republican nominee.So how important will Barack and Michelle Obama be for Kamala Harris' campaign? Can they move the dial further in the Democrats favour and help ensure election victory in November?Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Rory SymonDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

On Monday night Joe Biden made what was almost certainly his final speech as US President, and Lewis and Jon were in the hall at the Democratic National Convention to watch it all.It was the speech Biden never wanted to make. But did it ensure a smooth handover of the baton to his VP Kamala Harris? Later in the show we bring you a special report from outside the convention centre earlier on Monday where thousands protested against the US government's policy regarding the war in Israel and Gaza.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Rory SymonDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Jon and Lewis are at the opening day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. Joe Biden (he’s still president apparently) will be taking to the stage to give a farewell address to the Convention which should have been his. The Dems are giddy at the passing of the torch - but is that euphoria justified? Has Kamala actually restored the Democrats’ chances? We take a look at the electoral map and what’s ahead on this big week in the American political calendar.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Rory SymonDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Jon and Lewis are live from Chicago on the eve of the Democratic Party national convention, as Kamala Harris prepares to address the nation as her party's presidential nominee.Is she able to put to bed any lingering doubts that she's capable of defeating Donald Trump? Will the positive vibes around her campaign continue? And as tens of thousands of people are expected to protest outside the convention centre on Monday, can she unite the party over the war in Gaza.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

This week on The Sports Agents, As we enjoy a brief post-Olympic break, we paused to reflect on an unforgettable summer of sport... From England's run to the final of the Euros in Berlin, to all of Team GB's success in Paris and so much sporting drama in between - The Sports Agents have been there for all of it. Plus, before leaving France, Gabby & Mark sat down to wade through all of your questions on everything from the rivalry between broadcasters, which sport they'd compete in at LA 2028 and how to stop a new Premier League season from casting a shadow over all the other sport we've fallen in love with at The Olympic Games. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

This Friday, we answer your most pressing questions...Will Trump drop JD Vance as his VP before the election? Who are the serious Tory leadership candidates? And what products does Lewis use on his hair? Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The News Agents look back on how Twitter has evolved since it has become X under Elon Musk and ask if it's time to leave what has become an often dangerous platform of misinformation and abuse.And it's A Level results day, so Lewis puts Jon to the test.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng joins us at News Agents HQ for an exclusive interview.He reflects on his disastrous time as chancellor under Liz Truss, and the mini-budget which sparked a market crash. He still bristles when asked to apologise for his role in it all.He discusses the future of the Conservative Party as it searches for its new leader, the US Presidential election, and of course his thoughts on Liz Truss herself, describing her as an "unusual" woman.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Trump and Musk - it was a rambling conversation covering an extensive list of Trump's grievances. Will an endorsement from Elon Musk change the course of Trump's election campaign?And, Lewis and Jon are joined by Madam Speaker Nancy Pelosi for an in depth conversation about the presidential race, social media and Liz Truss. Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Ukrainian forces have charged in to Russia in a surprise attack - how will this play out for President Zelensky? And, as the Olympics come to an end in Paris we ask how successfully they reunited the county.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

As we bid 'au revoir' to the 2024 Paris Olympics, The Sports Agents round up the best of the big interviews from our final week inside Team GB House... Gabby & Mark were joined by running sensation and 1500m silver medalist Josh Kerr, and the most decorated British gymnast in history, Max Whitlock. Plus, renowned sports scientist, Professor Ross Tucker, to debunk and explain the controversy surrounding the two Olympic boxers at the heart of a gender row.New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

After weeks of rising tension and violence across the country, we take a deep dive inside the mind of the far right. Lewis speaks to a former friend of Tommy Robinson - the man who made him go viral. What made him turn his back on their ideology? And what is the future of the far right in the UK? Editor: Tom HughesSenior Producer: Gabriel Radus Producers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyDigital Journalists: Michael Baggs & Jacob Paul You can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Last night, the UK braced for violence. But a defiant display of counter-protest won. Jon and Lewis ask what happened to the far right riots - and will there be more to come?Later, Jon speaks to the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, who shares his experience as a prominent Muslim politician and his defiant stance in the face of racism.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Kamala Harris has finally selected her running mate - Minnesota governor Tim Walz. So can the pair take on Trump and Vance?And, with the UK military on standby to evacuate British citizens from Lebanon we speak to former British Ambassador to Lebanon, Tom Fletcher.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

As planned violence continues this week the Prime Minister has a new battle on his hands - and it's one of the most influential men on the planet. Elon Musk is trolling Kier Starmer. So, how do governments take on Big Tech? Later, Jon speaks to Scotland's former First Minister Humza Yousaf who questions whether the UK is the right place to raise his family following the "horrendous violence".Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

A week on from the attack in Southport, cities across the UK are burning as disinformation spreads and far right groups gather to riot. Lewis and Jon analyse Kier Starmer's response - how can the government get control of the situation? And how much is Elon Musk and social media to blame for the spread of the riots? Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

After an unforgettable first week at the Paris Olympics,The Sports Agents return to round up the big interviews from their first week in Paris... Gold medal rowers Hannah Scott and Lola Anderson joined Gabby & Mark, in our Team GB House studio, to reflect on a nail-biting photo-finish win and wanting to shatter the traditional image of what a female athlete 'looks like'.Sky Sports boxing commentator Andy Clarke was on hand to try to explain GB boxing's disastrous Olympics so far and the bigger question which hangs over boxing's future as an Olympic sport at all.Plus, synchronised divers Noah Williams and Scarlett Mew Jensen reveal what it's really like to hit the pool at speeds of over 30mph. Search for The Sports Agents to listen to these interviews in full, plus so much more insight and reaction to the Games. New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

This Friday we answer your questions.Which upcoming elections will Jon and Emily be staying up to watch? Will Huw Edwards have to pay back his BBC salary? And could Kamala Harris serve three terms as President?Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Trump turned up at the national association of black journalists yesterday and they just laughed at him. He took questions from a panel and found himself saying Kamala Harris had “turned herself black“. Cue hoots of outraged derision. And a former president complaining about the “horrible“ questions. Is there any strategy here or is it all going a bit wrong ? Later, should the English Defence League be a proscribed terror group or would that give too much credence to a bunch of thugs? We talk to the former head of counter terrorism about the impact of these knife edge decisions. And we hail the release of Wall street journalist Evan Gershkovich - held in a Russian cell on trumped up spying charges.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Last night police in Southport were pelted with bricks and rocks as hundreds of people gathered in protest outside a mosque - after disinformation about the suspect of the stabbing attack was spread online. Today we talk about the power of ‘disinfluencers’ and the menace they create - for money, power or clicks - destabilizing vulnerable communities at a time of grief. How should we deal with ‘shared’ misinformation? And what responsibility do our leaders have to make sure conspiracies aren’t spread through their words?Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon, Shane Fennelly & Arvind BadewalYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

We’ve spent the afternoon at the Treasury with the chancellor. How does she justify scrapping the cap on social care? Why is she wasting money by cancelling transport schemes we need ? And what are the taxes that ARE going up that she won’t rule out? We have the full interview. Later, an exclusive look with Reeves around the bathroom that all the former chancellors have used. Spoiler alert - it’s a urinal…Editor: Tom HughesSenior Producer: Gabriel RadusProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Rory Symon & Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

The Tory leadership window has just closed and six MPs have thrown their names in. On one side of the party sits Tom Tugendhat and Mel Stride. On the other, Priti Patel, Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch. James Cleverly sits somewhere in the middle and Suella Braverman is now nowhere to be seen. We talk to former Tory chairman, Lord Chris Patten, about the shape of his old party now. And ask Henry Hill - at Conservative Home - to read the tea leaves. Later, the next in our thrilling 'US Presidential Election movies you might have missed' series. This one stars James Spader and John Cusack. Can you guess?Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

All week long The Sports Agents have been building up to the start of The 2024 Paris Olympics... London Mayor Sadiq Khan sat down with Gabby to reflect on the real legacy of London 2012, why he wants to bring the Games back to the capital and as more and more international sporting events come to the UK, if Premier League games will go the other way? Earlier in the week, Andy Anson - British Olympic Association Chief Executive - explained what makes brand 'Team GB' so unique in world sport. And the former Olympian Jack Buckner, now head of UK Athletics, explained how the sport can evolve to protect its own future, despite a 'golden generation' of British athletes.Got a question about the Olympics for Gabby & Mark - email (or send a voice-note) to us at [email protected] New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Is it sexist to call Kamala by her first name? What happens to the election if Trump loses? Who’s the best president America never had? After a full on crazy week in America we answer your questions.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellVideo Production: Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

It was an act of supreme selflessness. And one of utmost urgency. Joe Biden acknowledged both things in his speech to the nation last night confirming he wouldn’t seek re-election. His rhetoric was rousing. But his speech faltering. He confirmed for many why he had to go, and left questions as to what happens in this final stretch of his presidency. Later, why are some Labour candidates accusing the Independent “pro Gaza“ MPs of running “toxic” electoral campaigns?In response to our interview with Heather Iqbal, The Workers Party said: "The Workers Party was closely associated with a number of Independent candidates who stood on a platform opposed to the genocide unfolding in Gaza. Our candidates and those with whom we were most closely associated polled a quarter of a million votes.In Manchester our supporters were the victim of a hit and run attack in May, during the general election in Littleborough a female campaigner of ours was assaulted outside the polling station and in Birmingham masked men attacked our canvassers with machetes and bats in Sutton Coldfield. No other party receieved this sort of violent harassment. All cases are reported in local and national media if you Google them, and all were caught on CCTV."Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceSocial Media Editor: Georgia FoxwellDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersVideo Production: Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Keir Starmer has faced down his first rebellion by removing the whip from 7 Labour rebels who voted with the SNP to end the cap on child benefits for families of more than two children. Did Starmer overreact? Or does it look decisive? And is this really the policy he wants to hold out on? A decade old policy of Osborne austerity.We speak directly to one of the rebels who lost the whip and ask what happens now.Editor: Tom HughesProducers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can YuceDigital Editor: Michaela WaltersVideo Production: Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents

Kamala Harris raised a hundred million dollars in the day and a half since Joe Biden announced he wouldn't be standing for re-election.She has now passed the delegate threshold to stand as the candidate - and as we record no one else has thrown their name into the ring.Republicans are meanwhile having to accommodate the new reality of having the oldest candidate in the race.Later, we look at the UK broadcasting landscape with Ofcom regulator Melanie Dawes. Does Ofcom have teeth? And will it use them?Editor: Tom HughesSenior Producer: Gabriel RadusProducer: Natalie IndgeVideo Production: Shane FennellyYou can listen to this episode on Alexa - just say "Alexa, ask Global Player to play The News Agents"The News Agents is brought to you by HSBC UK - https://www.hsbc.co.uk/https://store.global.com/collections/the-news-agents