The Standard

The search for British technology tycoon Mike Lynch and his teenage daughter resumed on Tuesday after a luxury yacht sank in a tornado off the coast of Sicily.One person is confirmed dead after 56-metre superyacht Bayesian hit a violent storm with 22 aboard, causing the mast to break and the vessel to be thrown off balance in strong winds.Cave divers are trying to access the Bayesian, as Sicily’s Civil Protection said Morgan Stanley International bank chairman Jonathan Bloomer was among six missing.Fifteen people were rescued, including a mother and her one-year-old daughter.Plus, Taylor Swift bows out from Wembley Stadium with nearly three-quarters of a million Swifties enjoying the show over a record-breaking eight nights in total. Hear Evening Standard arts correspondent Robert Dex on Swift’s economy-influencing London run. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zombie knives and machetes will finally be banned from next month amid horrific attacks on London’s streets.Ahead of a full ban, people in possession of these gruesome-looking weapons are being urged to hand them in at special bins at the capital’s police stations as part of a blades amnesty.We’re joined by Evening Standard home affairs editor Martin Bentham to discuss the ban and knife crime's devastating impact on young Londoners.Plus, in part two, Team GB Olympic 800 metres champion Keely Hodgkinson and victorious climber Toby Roberts on their plans after Paris 2024 gold medal success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Leathes is CEO of Motorway, the car buying and selling company that launched in 2017 and secured Unicorn status just four years later, after it was valued at over $1billion. This is a preview taken from our business podcast. To hear the full interview just search How to be a CEO or click here.For more interviews, news and analysis, go to the business page here or pick up the Evening Standard newspaper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sweden confirms Europe’s first case of a contagious new mpox variant, called Clade 1, following the World Health Organisation declaring a global public health emergency - latest with Evening Standard health reporter, Daniel Keane.In part two, ES arts & culture writer Vicky Jessop on Taylor Swift’s Wembley Stadium run and how the devastating Southport attacks affected the singer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview episode of our Brave New World podcast, we’re turning our attention to nootropics and neuroscience. Nootropics are drugs and supplements which proponents say can boost alertness, increase focus, and improve memory. Evgeny Lebedev meets Nootopia founder Mark Effinger, AKA Mr Noots. Since launching in 2004, Nootopia has helped 300,000 people- including doctors, biohackers, and fitness instructors- unlock their potential. To hear the full episode search Brave New World on your podcast provider. Disclaimer: you should always seek your own medical advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government is coming under pressure to cap rail fares for another year as July inflation data signalled potential further misery ahead for commuters.Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi reports this would land some commuters with a 4.6 per cent hike to their travel bills.We also examine the latest on government plans for rail nationalisation - and why won’t this necessarily mean any cheaper fares for passengers already paying through the nose.Plus, in part two, it’s Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour London reprise as the economy-influencing megastar returns to Wembley stadium.Swift’s back for five nights at Wembley after her triple concerts in June and cancelled Vienna gigs after a foiled terror plot.If you can’t get a ticket, there’s a host of TayTay-themed events around the capital.We’ve got the highlights with El Hunt, commissioning editor and writer on the Evening Standard’s culture desk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump sat down for a much-hyped live interview on X on Monday night. It’s been dubbed by viewers as a bizarre and rambly conversation, with many criticising how the former president made a number of strange statements and false claims, without being challenged during the two hour discussion. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, helps break down the key talking points from the interview and gives the latest updates on the US election as it stands. In part two, The Standard’s Junior Fashion Editor, Joe Bromley, joins us to discuss whether British men are ready for the return of budgie smugglers? Following a surge in purchases of the controversial swimwear.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an incredible two weeks, the Paris Olympics has officially come to an end.There’s no denying that the Games captured the world once again and gifted us countless iconic sporting moments, but did Paris 2024 deliver everything it promised? The Evening Standard’s Sports Correspondent, Matt Majendie, joins us from Paris to give his verdict, and share his favourite sporting moments from the 2024 Olympics. In part two, our Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, gives his review of the star-studded closing ceremony, and discusses some of the most talked about moments from the Games. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the police are to remain on “high alert” this weekend following days of violent disorder and unrest in England and Northern Ireland.It comes as cabinet minister Nick Thomas-Symonds also issued a warning to football fans who “engage in violent, thuggish behaviour” that they will be dealt with quickly. As police examine the links between far-right thugs and football hooligans ahead of the new season.Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil reveals the latest developments.In part two, The Standard’s El Hunt examines the increasing number of artists using dynamic pricing for concerts, and asks when did they get so greedy?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Met police chief, Sir Mark Rowley, has praised the “show of force and unity from communities” that defeated the threat from far-right troublemakers yesterday, after thousands of anti-racism protesters lined streets of the capital.Our Crime Correspondent, Anthony France, explains what exactly happened, how racist thugs are being fast-tracked through our justice system, and discusses whether this could be the beginning of the end of the riots. In part two, as Justin Timberlake kicks off the UK leg of his world tour, The Standard’s Emma Loffhagen analyses where it all went wrong for the star and how he went from pop's golden boy to DWI drama. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kamala Harris has officially announced Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her Democratic running mate, as the race to the White House heats up. But, are they an election-winning partnership?Andrew Rudalevige professor of government at Bowdoin College in Maine in the US, visiting professor at the LSE, and affiliated with the Centre for US Politics at University College London, is here to share his insight on the latest developments with the US election and explain everything you need to know about Tim Walz. In part two, as Netflix’s Love is Blind:UK begins streaming today, we talk to The Standard’s India Block about what she made of the first episode, and whether or not it can live up to the success of the US version.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s been another day of violent disorder in the UK, and there are fears that the far-right protests could be heading to London.A list circulating on social media which suggests that extremists are planning protests in four London boroughs is currently being assessed by the Metropolitan Police. Our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil discusses what we know so far and how hundreds of thugs are facing jail as the Government fast-tracks justice. In part two, The Standard’s feature writer and editor, Robbie Griffiths, takes a little trip down London 2012 memory lane, and analyses whether or not the city delivered on its Olympic legacy promises… and considers whether Paris can too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister has laid out his plan of action to tackle the riots across the country, following a COBRA meeting on Monday. The Standard’s Political Editor Nicholas Cecil explains what Keir Starmer's plans are and why there’s a focus on social media. In part two, the Standard’s Fashion Director Victoria Moss explains what Charli XCX’s latest music video tells us about sustainable fashion.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katrina Mirpuri joins renowned Indian chef and owner of the Cinnamon Collection, Vivek Singh to discuss the significance of South Asian Heritage Month in the UK.South Asian people make up 20 per cent of London's population.The month runs from July 18 to August 17 and aims to celebrate all things surrounding South Asian culture. To read Katrina’s full guide of the capital’s events click here.Vivek Singh has launched the UK’s first chaat competitive eating challenge at his latest restaurant, Cinnamon Bazaar in Richmond...In this episode:-What is chaat? the challenge, and Katrina reveals her own score-This year’s theme ‘Free to Be Me’ and how it’s expressed in many ways-History, culture, and delicious food...-Why Vivek is “proud to be Indian” and thinks the population is "more seen" than beforePlus more.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A report by recruitment firm Hays suggests the United Kingdom faces a shortage of skilled workers for in-demand job sectors, including technology, manufacturing and banking.But, paradoxically, it comes amid growing concerns about the impact of immigration rule changes around the Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold for foreign workers and their families - which rose from £26,200 to £38,700 in April.Evening Standard social editor Deeya Sonalkar describes her experiences navigating the Home Office's labyrinthine visa system, and our business editor Jonathan Prynn discusses the economic implications.In part two, the Evening Standard has got you covered for this summer's top free art shows, and acting culture editor Nick Clark has the highlights. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev meets with billionaire entrepreneur Christian Angermayer.The pair discuss The Enhanced Games. Could this improve drug testing at the Olympics?To hear the full episode search Brave New World. You will also be able to hear a conversation with retired Australian swimmer James Magnussen, a silver and double bronze Olympic medallist, who’s been offered $1 million if he wins the controversial new competition’s 100m freestyle swimming race. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emergency services report almost 40 police officers were injured as riots hit Southport after three girls were killed in a devastating knife attack.Violence on Tuesday flared as crowds gathered in the north-west seaside town for a vigil honouring Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, who were all fatally stabbed at a Taylor Swift-themed holiday club on Monday.Tensions were already running high in the wake of the tragedy, which escalated into violence.A police van was torched and a mosque attacked by a far-right mob after false rumours circulated on social media about the identity of the 17-year-old male suspect arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder at the dance studio.In this episode of the Standard podcast, with our home affairs editor Martin Bentham, we examine how social media disinformation is fanning the flames of extremism.Plus, why the British legal process won’t give you a suspect’s name or crime scene evidence immediately. In part two, reporter Robert Dex with Paris Olympics 2024 analysis as Great Britain leap to fourth in the medal table with two more golds, in the men’s triathlon and women’s quadruple sculls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard reveals on Tuesday that more than 30 more low traffic neighbourhoods could be built across London with funding from Mayor Sadiq Khan’s transport body.Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall has been examining details of expanded LTN plans, expected to cost around £50 million, in Transport for London’s annual progress report.Plus, acting culture editor Nick Clark visited the extraordinary Spitalfields home of married artists Philip and Charlotte Colbert, which is packed with bright, colourful pop art and surrealist pieces - but what about their everyday teapots and vases?Pop artist Philip and filmmaker Charlotte discuss inspiration for their work and a collaborating on a new homewares and furniture project at Chelsea’s Conran Shop.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great Britain’s gold rush begins with our first victory of Paris 2024 as Ros Canter, Tom McEwen and Laura Collett triumph in equestrian team eventing at the Château de Versailles.Tom Daley earlier scooped a remarkable fifth Olympic diving medal as he took silver alongside Noah Williams in men’s synchronised 10m platform final.It came after Adam Peaty narrowly missed out on the top podium spot to retain his title by a cruel 0.02 seconds in the men’s 100m breaststroke, and settled for joint silver.For more on Monday’s Paris successes, The Standard podcast is joined by reporter Robert Dex, who’s been covering developments.In part two, in her first major speech as chancellor, Rachel Reeves identifies a £20 billion black hole in government spending as she seeks to pin the blame for future tax rises on Tory profligacy.Reeves’s spending cut targets include more empty public buildings sell-offs, plus slashing government investment in some road-building projects - and there’s concerns about the future of central London’s High Speed 2 rail link.We have policy analysis, plus the latest on the Conservative leadership race, with Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus episode Jon Weeks meets Zahra Bahrololoumi, CEO of Salesforce UK&I.The CRM firm has been dubbed the world's number one customer relationship management software company, and Zahra herself has been named one of the best-known female leaders in the UK.In this episode Zahra discusses how AI is top of the agenda for businesses, why data security is paramount when using the technology, and why more investment is needed in boosting digital skills in the UK.To hear the full episode, search How to be a CEO wherever you find your podcasts, or tap here.For all the latest news head to standard.co.uk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 7 of A Week's a Long Time in Westminster: While "Brat" Kamala Harris is all but confirmed as the Democrat presidential nominee, there’s speculation in the UK that Labour are planning to raise taxes despite their election promises.Nicholas Cecil and Rachael Burford discuss the key moments of the week in the world of politics, including:Kamala Harris is celebrating "brat summer" as she prepares to take on TrumpThe candidates running to replace Rishi Sunak as the Tory leadership contests hots upWill Keir Stamer's honeymoon end in Autumn as MPs hint the country's finances are worse than they thought?London's housing crisis continues to bite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The wait is nearly over. The Evening Standard’s Sports Correspondent, Matt Majundie, joins us from Paris to give you the definitive guide on everything you need to know about this year’s Games. From Team GB’s chances of topping the medal table, the big name athletes competing again, to the rising stars to watch out for, and the key dates for your diary.In part two, our Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, runs through the latest news from the Olympics, from Charlotte Dujardin’s dramatic withdrawal, to Tom Daley testing out the beds in the athletes’ village, and all the rumours around what to expect from the opening ceremony.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard can reveal that the Royal Mint has been told by the Treasury that it would not have to mint any new 1p and 2p coins for general circulation this year - and doesn’t expect to order any more in the coming years.  Our Business & Technology Correspondent, Simon Hunt, who is behind the story, explains what we know so far about the situation and whether the UK is officially becoming a cashless society.  In part two, The Standard’s El Hunt reveals the next wave of Taylor Swift mania, the opening of a new display at V&A Museum about the global superstar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Evening Standard’s Defence Editor, Robert Fox, explains how the political situations in the US, Germany and France have thrust the UK to the front of the western alliance.Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been pitched into Nato leadership due to the UK Labour government being seen as the strongest and most stable of the lead European Nato allies - amid threats from Russia, China, North Korea and Iran.In part two our Arts Correspondent, Robert Dex, discusses the BBC’s annual list of top earners and what the Director General Tim Davie had to say about the Strictly Come Dancing crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Biden has officially dropped out of the 2024 US presidential race, and has publicly endorsed the current Vice-President Kamala Harris to succeed him. But with only 105 days left to go until election day, will it be Harris vs Trump? And is there enough time for the Democrats to fight against the momentum building behind Donald Trump? Jitendra Joshi, The Evening Standard’s Deputy Political Editor, explains how we got here and where this all leaves the Democrats. In part two, we take a deeper look at Kamala Harris, the potential Democratic nominee and hopeful president in waiting.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the best pub for food in London?Well, David Ellis, ES going out editor, and Josh Barrie, food writer, have put together a comprehensive list of the top spots in the capital. Whether you’re looking for well poured beers, excellent wines, a classic fish and chips, or something a bit different, they've got you covered. In this episode they discuss what makes a great gastro pub in 2024 and guide us through the top five on their list; where they are, what they offer and why they're the best.Check out their article with all 50 of London’s best gastropubs here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 6 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: As our new PM Sir Keir Starmer tries to unite Britain, Europe and the wider world, there’s plenty of political drama in the US. Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the key moments of the week in the world of politics, including:IT “pandemic” hits Britain and the worldLong-range missile talks between Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky into No10Donald Trump tries (for half an hour) to unite America before new attacks on DemocratsGrandfather clock is ticking against Joe BidenFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev talks to bestselling author and brain coach Jim Kwik. Kwik suffered a traumatic brain injury aged 5 and is now a world authority on brain optimisation.To hear the full interview with Jim Kwik, and to learn his top tips to boost your brain power, search Brave New World or click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More housing, improved rail services, extra rights for renters and more. Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the key points from the King’s Speech, and how Labour’s plans will impact London. Plus, Robert Dex explains why Strictly Come Dancing is introducing chaperones for celebrity contestants.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Data shows more than 100 spiking cases are happening in London every month. Anthony France discusses the recent surge in spiking in the capital, and explains the Met's plan to tackle it. Plus, in part two, Nick Clark reveals the top theatre shows to watch in London this summer.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Investigators continue to piece together evidence for a motive leading to the assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump.It left a former fire chief dead and wounded two other people at the Pennsylvania rally, plus Trump, after the shooter's bullet struck his ear.The gunman, named as Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire at the rally in Butler and was himself shot dead.But there are now serious questions about police and Secret Service response to the incident.The assassination attempt is also reframing Republican Trump’s bitter presidential contest against Democrat incumbent Joe Biden.For the latest, we’re joined by Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi.Plus, in part two, as Gareth Southgate’s pride of lions fly home after their 2-1 Euro 2024 final loss to Spain in Berlin, we look at England’s tournament highlights, with Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet public speaker, writer and professional introvert, Richard Etienne. He’s made a career out of showing people that you don’t need to be the loudest person in the room to have the most impact.Richard joins Nicola Barron from Evening Standard Masterclasses to discuss:·        What is an introvert?·        Is it harder for an introvert to succeed?·        Tips for public speaking and presentations·        Hybrid working: Advice for returning to the officeFor more information on Masterclasses from the Evening Standard, and to book your place on Richard’s class ‘How to speak up and get noticed’ go to standard.co.uk/masterclasses.For all listeners of this podcast you can book with a 20% discount using promo code ‘Standard’. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starmer’s first week in power but is it slipping away from Biden?Episode 5 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: All eyes on the president, Labour’s great reset, and is football coming home? Analysis with our politics team - Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford.In this episode:Labour gets off to a flying startIs Biden heading for the Rest Wing?Battle for the heart and soul of the Tory PartyNewbie MPs at WestminsterAnd….it’s coming home..how London’s preparing for England vs Spain Euro 2024 final Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

England’s late winner against the Netherlands has sparked a rush of fans trying to get to Berlin in time for Sunday night’s final.Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex has the latest on the race to grab those gold-dust tickets for the showdown against Spain.In part two, we’ll look at why water bills in London are set to shoot up by almost £100 by 2030 under proposals unveiled today by the industry regulator Ofwat.Thames Water, Britain’s biggest water supplier, says the money’s needed to fix its shattered finances and pay for a multi billion investment programme.We’re joined by Professor Ewan McGaughey, of King’s College London, a specialist in public service regulation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Sir Keir Starmer jets to Washington for Nato’s 75th anniversary, his armed forces minister said the government will aim to complete a defence review in less than a year.It comes amid warnings from former military chiefs that Britain is unprepared for the threat of war. Minister Luke Pollard said the new government would work “at pace” to finish the assessment - which the prime minister said needs to happen before decisions are made on raising defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP.Now, the prime minister is in Washington to meet US President Joe Biden and other Nato leaders at a summit to mark the alliance’s 75th anniversary.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil has the latest.In part two, we’ll examine new tolls being levied at two Thames crossings, Blackwall Tunnel and the under-construction Silvertown Tunnel - which Transport for London has confirmed will be up to £4 each way.Analysis from City Hall with Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hybrid vehicles of a different kind will soon be seen on London’s roads - behold the era of the ‘tram-bus’.Officially called ieTrams, they will ply one of the capital’s longest routes, the 15-mile 358 line from Crystal Palace to Orpington.The striking new vehicles might look like a rounded single-decker with covered wheels, but the hardware includes a pantograph overhead fast-charging system used in electric tramsMark Blunden speaks to Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall about this new age for the capital’s public transport.In part two, a look at what public art’s in store for London this year - as a giant polka-dotted pumpkin by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama is installed in Kensington Palace - and we’re joined the Royal College of Art’s head of programme for MA sculpture, Sarah Staton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s newly-minted chancellor Rachel Reeves gives her first major speech at the Treasury with the hope of boosting investment in Britain after years of post-Brexit economic turbulence.The fledgling Labour government is making growth its number one priority as it seeks to bring in extra billions to improve public services.Speaking to business chiefs at the Treasury, Reeves explained how she wants to rev up Britain’s economy domestically, including by planning reforms, as she sought to boost shaken investor confidence.For the latest, we’re joined by Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil. Plus, the countdown is on for England’s semi-final clash with the Netherlands - with one match ticket being offered for £16,000.With just days to go, Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex discusses the demand for Euros tickets in host city Düsseldorf and hopes for London ‘fan zones’ to watch the action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard’s Jon Weeks met with Nicola Hodson, the UK and Ireland CEO of multinational corporation IBM.On this special cut-down episode Jon and Nicola discuss AI and how IBM is helping companies from all sectors to incorporate the technology into their business.To hear the full interview just search How to be a CEO Nicola Hodson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Election Results Day.... Episode 4 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: Labour's historic victory, broken down by our politics team - Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford. In this episode:How London's political landscape has changedWhy Keir Starmer's now facing the 'hard part'What's next for the Conservative party?Did Reform UK and the Lib Dems do as well as they hoped?Find more general election reaction here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev talks to physician and longevity expert Mark Hyman. The two discuss the rise of functional medicine and what lifestyle changes we can make to enhance our healthspan.To hear the full interview just search Brave New World on your podcast provider. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The pros & cons of immigration, the main parties’ proposals, and how to tackle an influx of migrants. Madeleine Sumption, the Director of the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford discusses the current state of immigration in the UK, how migrant numbers impact the economy, and why evidence suggests the Rwanda scheme might not be an effective deterrent against illegal migration.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the run-up to election day, we’re taking a deeper look at three of the biggest issues for voters: taxes & the economy, immigration - and today, it’s the turn of the NHS. Strikes, waiting lists, lack of funding, not enough GP appointments, dentists appointments, or mental health services - they’re all issues that never seem to be out of the news. Experts have been sounding the alarm that the NHS is in crisis for years now, so what will whoever wins the general election and makes up the next government, do to improve the situation for our much-loved health care system? The Standard’s Health Reporter, Daniel Keane, shares his insight.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The countdown to polling day is on, and in a special miniseries of the Standard podcast ahead of 4 July, we’re taking a deeper look at three of the hot topics on the 2024 general election campaign trail - tax and the economy, the NHS and immigration.In this first special episode, we’ll examine the critical of issue the pound in our pocket and which of the parties can be trusted to steward the economy.While both the Conservatives and Labour have unanswered questions about funding specifics for spending commitments.Plus, Sir Keir Starmer’s careful wording over tax plans, City of London's mood for Labour and what is Rishi Sunak’s political legacy?From the newsroom, join Mark Blunden in conversation with Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 3 of A Week’s a Long Time in Westminster: Angry debates on both sides of the Atlantic, exclusive interviews with Rishi Sunak and Sir Ed Davey, a calamitous poll for the Tories, and the battle for Jewish votes in Finchley. Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the latest drama in the run-up to the general election. In this episode:Did the PM do enough in his final debate with the Labour leader?Just how bad was Joe Biden’s own debate with Donald Trump?Ipsos polling finds 72% of voters dislike the Tories.Sir Keir Starmer admits remarks about Bangladesh were ‘clumsy’ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Ed Davey has appealed to voters in London and the commuter belt to “tear down the Blue Wall” on July 4.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil secured an exclusive interview with the Liberal Democrat leader , which took place on the Waterloo to Wimbledon route that’s seen as a key hunting ground for Lib Dems to snatch Conservative votes in south-west London.Now, Sir Ed’s hoping a boost in visibility with stunts on the campaign trail will translate into crosses on ballot papers.Plus, in part two - it’s the countdown to Glastonbury Festival.This year’s line-up includes Dua Lipa, Coldplay, SZA, Little Simz, Shania Twain, Cyndi Lauper, Avril Lavigne, Janelle Monae and Paul Heaton.We asked the BPI’s Paul Williams about the evolution of Glastonbury’s live music in the streaming world - and the resurgence of retro cassettes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feel like you’re going nowhere? That’s because London remains the most traffic-congested city in Europe and the third worst globally, according to an annual survey.Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall reports the Inrix 2023 global traffic score found speeds in central London fell 10 per cent in a year to an average of 10mph.Ross joins Mark Blunden to discuss the capital’s most congested routes, TfL’s gridlock management strategies and how Londoners’ on-demand shopping habits are fuelling the problem.Plus, make sure to stay tuned for part two, where we’ll analyse ‘Brat summer’ - a phenomenon that fuelled by Charli XCX’s new album that’s seen social channels overrun with low-res green squares inspired by the cover artwork.Rachelle Abbott joins features writer Maddy Mussen to discuss her piece on Brat summer as the singer prepares to play a Glastonbury DJ set. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has left London after agreeing a US plea deal that will see him plead guilty to a spying charge and go free.Assange was locked in a lengthy legal battle over his extradition with American authorities, including years living in London’s Ecuadorian Embassy from 2012 before detention in HMP Belmarsh.He was sought by the US since Wikileaks published hundreds of thousands of secret documents relating to the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.Assange left Britain on a charter flight to plead guilty on a single spying charge at court in a US Pacific territory.Evening Standard home affairs editor Martin Bentham examines what’s next in the legal case and Assange’s timeline of being locked up in London.Plus, in part two, we look at the increasing price of a pint of beer in London - which has reached, on average, a frothy £6.75.Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn discusses the soaring costs hitting the capital’s hospitality sector. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Polling day is nearly here - and the prime minister has set out sweeteners he hopes will woo Londoners to vote Conservative on 4 July, rather than backing Labour - or switching to Reform, the Liberal Democrats or Greens.In a wide-ranging interview with the Evening Standard’s political editor, Nicholas Cecil, Sunak teased future interest rate cuts, vowed war on post-Brexit red tape, discussed the future of the City and civil service reform.Plus, Taylor Swift played the finale of three shows at Wembley Stadium on her Eras tour, before returning to London in August.Evening Standard commissioning editor and writer El Hunt, who was at Wembley, joins Mark Blunden in the newsroom to discuss the concerts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 2 of A Week's a Long Time in Westminster: A betting scandal, Starmer struggles to shake off Corbyn’s legacy, Boris returns and Ed Davey’s latest antics. Nicholas Cecil, Jitendra Joshi and Rachael Burford discuss the latest drama in the run-up to the general election. In this episode:Conservatives forced to delete ‘gambling’ post on XSuella Braverman’s embarrassing TikTok postsThe latest Ipsos survey sheds light on London’s intentionsWhy a local Labour leader was found hiding in a hedgeFollow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this preview of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev speaks with Ryan Holiday about the modern media landscape, echo chambers and the value of Stoic leadership.To hear the episode in full just search Brave New World Evening Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.