The Standard

The Evening Standard's revealed how thousands of Londoners are missing urgent checks for cancer as the full impact of the coronavirus lockdown emerges. Those seeking a two-week hospital referral from their GP fell by almost 18,000 in May — 53 per cent lower than the same month last year, and worse than the rest of the country. The number of Londoners starting life-saving or life-extending treatment also fell by about 1,000 — 35 per cent lower than last year. Health editor Ross Lydall tells us how health campaigners fear cancer has become "the forgotten C" during the Covid-19 pandemic. And, Harper Lee's classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird is turning 60, but is the race relations story told through the eyes of young white girl still relevant in a Black Lives Matter world? We speak to best-selling author Lauren Wilkinson, whose novel American Spy, about a black female FBI agent in a white male dominated field, was named by Barack Obama as one of the best of last year.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government's announced that gyms and swimming pools will reopen within weeks, but office blocks around the country remain empty as the coronavirus lockdown limps on. It follows the Chancellor unveiling a discount meal scheme, and help for homebuyers. Our associate editor Julian Glover asks if ministers are doing what's popular instead of making the hard decisions that will restart an economy lumbering towards recession. Also, Labour's Jess Phillips speaks to the Leader podcast about a gap in the new Domestic Abuse Bill. It's being hailed as "landmark legislation" after passing the Commons earlier this week, but Ms Phillips says it doesn't cover migrant victims who are being denied public money and shelter support. She tells us why that's putting people's lives at risk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak's given everyone in Britain a discount voucher for half price meals at restaurants, pubs and cafes during August in an unprecedented move to boost the battered economy. He's also slashed VAT from 20 per cent to just five per cent on leisure and nights out and cut Stamp Duty. We ask city journalist Mark Shapland and Prudence Ivey from the Evening Standard's Homes and Property if the Chancellor's done enough to get the economy moving. Also, Lauren Bravo, writer of How to Break Up with Fast Fashion joins us to talk about Boohoo. The retailer's launched an independent investigation after one of its suppliers was accused of paying staff below the minimum wage, and allegedly making them work in unsafe conditions during the coronavirus lockdown. But is Boohoo the only player in the fashion industry with questions to answer over how workers are treated? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson has been blasted for an "absolute travesty of leadership" after saying that "too many" care homes did not properly follow procedures during the coronavirus pandemic. Care providers have branded his comments as "cowardly" while the head of the National Care Forum said they were "frankly hugely insulting". But Downing Street's neither apologising nor backing down. Instead, our political editor Joe Murphy says Number 10's claiming the PM's words "didn't mean what we think they mean”. Three pubs which reopened their doors for the first time on Saturday have had to close again after customers tested positive for coronavirus. The Evening Standard's Go London editor, David Ellis, says it proves landlords are taking the Covid-19 threat seriously, and it shouldn't put people off heading out at the weekend.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Headteachers have been telling the Evening Standard how the coronavirus lockdown is having a "severe impact" on the country's children.  Sleep loss, silence, and appearing withdrawn or sad are just some of the manifestations of the mental strain that has been placed upon some, while teachers say that others had not even picked up a pen or book since their schools were shut. Our education editor Anna Davis talks to us about her investigation, and why the government needs to intervene to help the most vulnerable. Also, one of the country's top west end producers joins the podcast to talk about the £1.5bn lifeline the government's giving the arts industries. Sonia Friedman, whose company is behind hits including the Book of Mormon and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, explains why she's "immensely grateful" for cash she hopes will save the culture sector, but also reveals concerns over how and when it will be handed out.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London is set to reopen but London mayor Sadiq Khan warns this isn’t a time to celebrate. He tells The Leader podcast that while Londoners should go out and enjoy the city on Saturday, it's crucial to remember that the threat of Covid-19 is still very real and social distancing must be respected. What will happen if we don’t? We also speak to Professor Karol Sikora who tells us exactly what the consequences will be.And, Ghislaine Maxwell is facing charges over allegations she helped Jeffrey Epstein 'identify and befriend and groom girls’. Evening Standard columnist and former acquaintance Anne McElvoy says she remembers Ghislaine in the 80s a British socialite withbullet-proof confidence. She tells us whether there was any sense then that Ghislaine was wrapped up in another world with Epstein. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an exclusive interview with the Evening Standard’s new editor, Emily Sheffield, Boris Johnson warned Britain: the furlough scheme cannot go on. He said an extension to the scheme, which is keeping 9.3 million people in ‘suspended animation’, wouldn’t be healthy for the economy - or for us. But Ms. Sheffield tells The Leader podcast the PM revealed there’s more big spending to come as the country emerges from the pandemic. And, we introduce you to the Evening Standard’s new editor. Emily Sheffield is returning to the paper after a period as British Vogue’s deputy editor and launching female-led digital news brand ThisMuchIKnow. She says this is a period of great innovation and change and she’s here to make the most of it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If a Leicester-style Covid-19 outbreak hits London, town halls are warning they need more information on how they could enforce a local lockdown. Mayor Sadiq Khan says London isn’t ready for a second surge, and if one hits, more people could lose their lives. The Evening Standard’s Nicholas Cecil has pieced together what plans are in place to stop a surge spiralling out of control, but tells us public health chiefs are operating in the dark.And, a list of air bridges with the UK is set to be released this week and airlines are already ramping up their flight schedules. So does this mean summer is saved? Abta’s Sean Tipton tells us we’re likely to see a boom in out-of-season travel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leicester became the UK’s first city to experience a local lockdown just as Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced his ‘New Deal’ plan to soften the blow to Britain’s economy post-pandemic. What does a new surge in coronavirus cases meanfor the heath of the Midlands city’s businesses? We spoke to local hair salon owner Barrie Stephen who says after weeks of intense preparation and thousands of pounds spent, the news is devastating.And, the National Gallery is set to re-open its doors - the first of the museums and galleries to do so as lockdown measures in England begin to ease. Director Gabriele Finaldi says this is a big moment not just for him, but for the recovery of the nation. Arts editor Nancy Durrant spoke with him for a piece in today’s Evening Standard, she tells us what visitors can expect when they visit next week.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The city of Leicester is facing two more weeks of lockdown as the rest of England prepares to head to the pub this weekend. Boris Johnson says this is part of the government’s new ‘whack-a-mole’ approach to deal with local flare ups of coronavirus. But if London’s hit, what would a lockdown look like? The Institute for Government’s Alex Thomas tells us it's complicated. And, Sir Mark Sedwill, the government's top civil servant and National Security Advisor has been forced out of both his roles.Chief Brexit negotiator David Frost has taken up position as NSA, which the Evening Standard’s Joe Murphy says has some former top mandarins worried - but who will fill his spot at the heart of Number 10? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than 140 police officers have been injured in the last three weeks trying to break up massive illegal street parties across London. They're struggling to control the crowds of hundreds gathering in places like Brixton, Streatham and Notting Hill to party until the early hours of the morning. Met Commissioner Cressida Dick's warning people to "cool it," but Evening Standard journalist John Dunne says that will be difficult as the sun comes out and lockdown restrictions ease.Also, Labour's at war with itself again following the sacking of Rebecca Long-Bailey. Leader Sir Keir Starmer's had a tense confrontation with left-wingers including Jeremy Corbyn and Diane Abbott, who are calling for the former shadow education secretary to be reinstated. A petition supporting Ms Long-Bailey's also passed its 10,000 signature target. Evening Standard columnist Ayesha Hazarika tells us why Sir Keir is standing firm in his decision. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A trove of documents, emails and text messages that was supposed to clear Robert Jenrick of allegations he did billionaire Richard Desmond a favour over a planning decision has done anything but. Questions are being raised about the Housing Secretary’s relationship with the businessman, who was complaining about “Marxists” plotting against his plans to build 1,500 homes at Westferry in East London. The Evening Standard's political editor Joe Murphy joins the podcast to talk about new documents he's seen covering the affair. Also, holiday operators are reporting a sudden surge in bookings for Mediterranean villas offering “privacy and space” following reports that air bridges to leading European destinations will be available from next week. A scramble to save a peak summer season worth up to £20 billion is under way ahead of an expected formal announcement on Monday that the much criticised quarantine rules for travellers returning to Britain will start to be eased. Travel journalist Simon Calder, though, says it's too little too late.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the big announcement, the government’s now delivering the details on how lockdown will be eased on July 4th. Guidance has been dispatched to businesses affected , including things like telling pubs to warn customers police can be called if they’re not socially distancing. But as the advice was being delivered, some of the country's top health bosses released a letter warning the UK needs a review of preparedness for a second peak of the infection. We speak to BMA chair Dr Chaand Nagpaul who says around 40% of doctors say they couldn't cope with having to do it all again.Also, parts of the UK have seen temperatures above 30c as a heatwave spreads around the country. Could it last until the lockdown restrictions are lifted, or is there stormy weather ahead? Forecaster Jo Farrow, from Netweather, tells us what's happening and how long it will last for. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MPs were so excited to hear Boris Johnson say pubs will re-open, they shouted "Hallelujah" in the Commons. Museums and art galleries have the green light too. But after more than three months in lockdown, how many will be ready to welcome people by July 4th, and how many people will actually go? The Evening Standard's Lizzie Edmonds says many of London's top tourist attractions are worried the pandemic's effects will last even longer than lockdown itself. Also, it can't be said for certain that coronavirus came from a wet market in Wuhan but most scientists have it at the very top of a short list of suspects. The trade is supplied by a huge international operation, much of it run by organised crime, making large amounts of money from cruelty to animals. The Evening Standard's begun a campaign to end the illegal wildlife trade, and teamed up with conservation group Space for Giants. Their CEO Dr Max Graham tells us how the supply chain works, and the global effort that will be needed to stop it.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Home Secretary Priti Patel's visited the Reading park where three people were killed and three more injured in what's being investigated as a terror attack at the weekend. 25-year-old Khairi Saadallah, a Libyan refugee, is in custody. It's reported he was known to MI5, but the Evening Standard's Home Affairs editor Martin Bentham says coronavirus lockdown restrictions have made it harder to investigate potential threats in the UK. It's 72 years since the  HMT Empire Windrush arrived at Tilsbury docks in Essex, carrying the first people who would become what's known as the 'Windrush Generation'. In 2018, they were at the centre of an immigration row when, despite being given the lifelong right to remain in the UK, at least 83 people were wrongly deported. We speak to former shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott who tells us lessons are still to be learned.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The last big hurdle to Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s plan to switch to step two of the UK’s roadmap to recovery has cleared with the coronavirus alert level dropping. It means pubs and restaurants will open next month and there’s even suggestions the two metre rule could be reduced to one metre. London School for Hygiene and Tropical Medicine researcher and Director at March for Change Dr Mike Galsworthy tells us what it means for Britons as we ease out of lockdown. And, the creative industry has been one of the hardest hit by the global pandemic. In the UK, losses could reach £1.4 billion a week. In the Evening Standard, the boss of the Creative Industries Federation Caroline Norbury says artists are vital in times of darkness forproviding respite and resilience, and the delicate economy that supports them must be protected. She tells us what big thinking - and some imagination - could do to help prevent a cultural catastrophe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The ‘force’s sweetheart’, Dame Vera Lynn, has died aged 103. She became a symbol of hope and inspiration for those on the front line of World War Two, and again this year, when the Queen evoked the lyrics in her beloved song ‘we will meet again’ as she rallied the nation in the face of a global pandemic. The head of the Armed Forces charity SSAFA, Sir Andrew Gregory, tells us how Dame Vera’s charm spanned generations.And, the Duchess of Cambridge has a message for the nation’s children as they prepare to return to school: your feelings of frustrations will pass, be kind to one another. She’s tapped in to a serious message from the Harris Federation, who have noticed children are withdrawn and even frightened of returning to the classroom. Director of secondary education Carolyn English tells us this only adds to the argument for schools to reopen quickly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Al-fresco dining is set to bring back the buzz to London’s famed West End. Pubs, cafes and restaurants will spill out onto the streets over the summer, reviving spending and lifting the city’s spirits. Soho Estate’s John James has led the charge to get the district back up and running, and says he’s delighted Westminster City has heard their calls. And, football’s back after 100 days, but now the world looks very different. The Premier League is grappling with how to keep players safe during a pandemic, and it is facing calls, sparked by the Black Lives Matters protests, to make deeper changes to the sport.The Evening Standard’s Dan Kilpatrick tells us what fans can expect from kick off tonight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson's made a hasty u-turn on providing free school meals this Summer after a campaign by Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford sounded the death knell for the policy. Now, 1.3 million children will have access to meal vouchers over the school holidays, something the Government has never provided before. The Evening Standard’s Joe Murphy tells us how Rashford struck a chord even with those in the PM’s own party. And, Royal Ascot is racing behind closed doors this week for the first time in its 250 year history. Even the Queen will be watching from Windsor Castle - the first time she’s not attended since her coronation. But, can the event still be the same without royalty and the hundreds of thousands of spectators, dressed in their finest? Director of racing Nick Smith says there’s still plenty of ways to get involved in the fanfare from home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shops are reopening across Britain but with a new look. Hand sanitizing stations have been installed, caps on the amount of people allowed through the doors have been imposed. During lockdown, the Office for National Statistics shows non-food shops have been losing £1.7 billion a week and now they’re trying to draw customers back in. But how will they innovate to survive post-pandemic? The Evening Standard’s Lizzie Edmonds was at Oxford Street this morning to witness the re-opening, and tells us what shopping’s "new normal" feels like.And, in lockdown, London’s parks have become the capital’s replacement for pubs. While at first people were using the spaces to reconnect with nature, now with the sun out and eased restrictions, every weekend they’ve become the home of impromptu festivals. Hackney mayor Philip Glanville tells us council’s are doing what they can to make parks welcoming for all, but ultimately, it's up to visitors to do the right thing.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s crippled lockdown economy smashed all records in April when the nation’s output plummeted by more than a fifth. The remarkable 20.4 per cent dive in GDP — even deeper than most City forecasts — came in the month when Boris Johnson’s strict “stay at home” order was in force for all 30 days. But our consumer business editor Jonathan Prynn tells us there is some hope for a recovery as the number of covid cases in the country starts to fall. And, the Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council tells our digital fashion and beauty editor Chloe Street how London Fashion week is transforming itself into an online event because of the pandemic. How hard has the industry been hit by covid-19, and what's happening to help? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After months of pleading from restaurants, bars, theatres and cinemas, the government could be about to reduce the two metre social distancing rule. Communities minister Simon Clarke's been giving interviews suggesting it's under review. Some other countries have set the distance to as little as one metre, so why can't the UK? Restaurateur Jack Stein, son of celebrity chef Rick Stein, tells us how cutting the gap by even just half a metre could make the difference between successfully re-opening and going bust. Also, as UK singles get ready for their "social bubble" time this weekend, we look at how Holland saved sex during the pandemic. Dutch writer Linda Duits talks to us about the way lockdown rules there encouraged people to find "sex buddies", and the difference that made to the country.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Coronavirus has never been so prevalent. Although cases are dropping in Europe, they're soaring in both north and South America, while Africa is struggling to control the infection. Data suggests the peak of the global pandemic is still to come. Among those battling Covid-19 across borders is Save the Children. Their executive director of global programmes Gwen Hines tells us about the challenges being faced in places like Yemen, where a civil war is hampering efforts to keep people safe. Prince Philip's turned 99 with a celebration at Windsor Castle with the Queen. A new photograph of the couple has been released to mark the occasion. We ask the Evening Standard's Insider editor Lucy Pavia what else the Duke of Edinburgh will be doing on his special day. We also ask if it's true, as one royal commentator has claimed, that lockdown's meant he's never spent this much time alone with his wife before. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government's announced all primary school children in England will not be sent back to classes before the summer break. It follows a backlash from teachers and unions who warned it would be impossible due capacity issues, staff shortages and social distancing requirements. In this episode of the Leader Podcast we look at an alternative to using classrooms for pupils with the launch of a new forest school in London, where children are taught outside. London Mayor Sadiq Khan's ordered a commission to review statues, street names and public buildings that may have a connection to slavery. It could lead to places like the Tate and Sloane Square getting a name change. But should we tear down our past? The Evening Standard's associate editor Julian Glover argues it's better to reset the balance by finding ways to remember the history people have forgotten. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New Zealand is declaring itself covid-19 free and lifting almost all of its lockdown restrictions. It follows the recovery of a woman in her 50s who was the last known person in the country to have the infection. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern admits she "had a little dance" when told the virus appeared to have cleared, 101 days after the first case was reported. We speak the New Zealand Herald political journalist Amelia Wade to find out how the country did it? Met police commissioner Cressida Dick has written for the Evening Standard to describe the "disgraceful criminality" during Black Lives Matter demonstrations that led to 49 of her officers being injured, several seriously. There were more than 60 arrests at the protests in London which saw statues defaced and government buildings damaged. The Evening Standard's home affairs editor Martin Bentham tells us about the difficulties of policing a mass protest during a pandemic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why has it taken the UK so long to introduce mandatory face mask wearing on public transport? In this special edition of the Leader podcast, we speak to a physician who has been campaigning for the change since the pandemic began, Dr Babak Javid. The Evening Standard's health editor, Ross Lydall, tells us how the law will be enforced, and we hear from Kerry Macphee, the Commonwealth Games competing cyclist who has joined a cottage industry of face mask makers around the United Kingdom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Police have identified a new suspect in the disappearance. The man, known only as Christian B, is currently in jail in Germany for the rape of a woman in the same Portuguese resort where Madeleine vanished when she was just 3 years old. Her parents have welcomed the development. The Evening Standard's home affairs editor Martin Bentham tells us how the new suspect was identified, and why it's taken so long. As Chernobyl, the drama based on the nuclear plant explosion in 1986, has been nominated for 14 Bafta television awards we look at how TV audiences have been affected by the pandemic lockdown. We ask our digital showbiz editor Rachel McGrath if the judges were influenced by current events when making their decisions, and what sort of shows viewers are turning to at a time when there's not much else to do.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite thousands packing into Hyde Park organisers of the Black Lives Matter protest tried to enforce social distancing measures, aware of concerns about the virus' spread in a mass gathering. Yet, around the UK many appear to be ignoring the rules, with a poll suggesting one in five gave up on them after the Dominic Cummings affair. Labour says the government is losing the people's trust. Meanwhile, the Home Secretary has announced her much-criticised international quarantine laws. We speak to Chris Goater from the International Air Transport Association who says they won't be effective and will hurt an already wounded airline industry further.  How did Zoom go from a tiny start-up with barely $200,000 in profit, to a global video conferencing giant projecting revenue of $1.8 billion? The Evening Standard's Mark Shapland tells us that great design, and failures by rivals like Skype, led to an enormous success story during a pandemic that's sent other companies to the wall. We also reveal the Evening Standard's offering up to £150,000 for great start-up ideas in London.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are concerns US police tactics against George Floyd protesters is increasing the risk of coronavirus infecting demonstrators. The use of tear gas on mass gatherings is being highlighted, because it causes coughing which can spread the bug. Meanwhile, Donald Trump's threatening to send the army into cities to "dominate the streets". Evening Standard columnist Philip Delves Broughton is in New York, where the Governor's warning people to take care, but not stop protesting. Public Health England has published a review which has confirmed that black, Asian and minority ethnic people are more likely to die from Covid-19. It found that those of Bangladeshi ethnicity had around twice the risk of death than those from a white British background. We speak to Dr Chandra Kenneganti, chair of the British International Doctors Association, who tells us the figures only confirm what they already knew, and what's needed is swift action.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Schools are re-opening for more pupils in England, but many classes are all but empty. It's thought around half of parents have decided to hold off on sending their children back to their teachers. That's despite schools implementing social distancing measures, including keeping desks apart and enforcing more hand washing. Warnings from some scientists that the lockdown is being lifted too early may have put some people off, but our education editor Anna Davis says it's expected the number of kids going to classes will rise over the week. The UK’s quarantine laws were only announced last week and are supposed to come into force on Monday. But already the Evening Standard has learned a rebellion by MPs has seen Downing Street aides draw up plans to ease them. It follows the aviation and tourism industries saying the rules as they stand would ruin any hope of recovery during the summer. Jonathan Prynn tells us what's wrong with the laws, and whether they'll be scrapped soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The former health secretary Jeremy Hunt has written in the Evening Standard warning the UK needs to “massively speed up” its coronavirus testing system. He says it needs to be a 24 hour turnaround time, it’s currently of median of 48, and he’s been told a care home in his constituency had to wait a week for results for some of its residents. It comes as the country prepares to ease out of lockdown with new rules allowing up to 6 people to meet in open spaces. Our comment editor Susannah Butter asks if the UK's ready to leave the house, and where is the world-class testing Boris Johnson promised us?The National Trust is to begin re-opening some of its parks and gardens, although you won't be able to go into any of its stately homes just yet. The Trust had to furlough 80 percent of its staff and reportedly faces a £200 million deficit because of the pandemic. Its spokesman Simon Toomer joins the podcast to tell us what's involved in opening up the spaces, and what people will and won't be able to do. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dominic Cummings "might" have broken lockdown rules when he visited Barnard Castle, according to Durham Police. They're not taking any further action for what they're calling a "minor breach", but their conclusion is fuelling further calls for the Prime Minister's adviser to resign or be fired. Downing Street says that's not going to happen, but our deputy political editor Nicholas Cecil says there's already a swell of senior Tory MPs who think Boris Johnson should take action before the affair undermines efforts to keep the UK safe from coronavirus. Live music is returning to the UK. The BBC's announced the Proms will go ahead, with a mix of archived and live performances which could see at least a small audience at the Albert Hall. The Evening Standard's associate editor Julian Glover says it's a huge boost for a country that needs cultural events to come back, and the government should give music as much attention as it does football. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson calls it the “whack-a-mole” strategy. An enormous operation to test and trace everyone in the UK showing symptoms of coronavirus, as well as those they have been in contact with. Our political editor Joe Murphy tells us how it’s supported by an army of 50,000 doctors and data gatherers, and why the government changed the name from “track and trace”. But the Evening Standard’s editorial asks how it can work if no-one knows what the self-isolation rules are anymore?It was predicted that the lockdown would lead to great works of literature, or at least the DIY getting done. But figures from the Office for National Statistics have revealed what the UK public have really been up to. The Evening Standard’s Naomi Ackerman has been reading the report. She joins The Leader podcast to tell us what the top activities have been - and who’s been doing the most housework. She also discusses what she’s been up to, including launching her own podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a rose garden Downing Street press conference, Dominic Cummings remains a special adviser with the backing of Boris Johnson. But now approval polls show the public is unhappy with the Prime Minister, and a junior minister's resigned, can the architect of the Conservatives' election win really hold on much longer? In this special edition of the Leader podcast, the Evening Standard's political editor Joe Murphy reveals his conversations with Tory MPs who fear public anger is only going to grow. And the Evening Standard's Londoner editor, Ayesha Hazarika, tells us how Labour could take advantage of Boris Johnson's apparent vulnerability.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three months late and riddled with exemptions, the government is introducing quarantine rules for those who fly into the UK. They'll force people to self-isolate for 14 days, with exceptions including fruit pickers and possibly racing car drivers. Those who break the rules could be fined up to £1,000, but the Metropolitan police say it's not their job to enforce them. Our associate editor Julian Glover tells us why the Evening Standard's calling the laws "silly tokenism" and makes suggestions for how the government can safely allow people to take foreign holidays again. What are the rules for going outside this bank holiday, and is it alright to buy a pint? The Evening Standard's Amira Hashish has been out in Notting Hill, where some bars and restaurants are offering takeaway services. She tells us how there's confusion about what you can and cannot do, but also excitement about being able to buy a drink from a real pub again. You can find lots of ideas for the bank holiday, both indoors and out, on the Evening Standard's website.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NHS surcharge that sees some non-EU migrant health and care workers paying £400 for access to services, whether they use them or not, is supposed to go up this year, but could it instead be scrapped? Several Tory backbenchers are joining calls for the government to dump the fee as the country recognises the importance of overseas staff in the health system. Our political editor Joe Murphy tells us Boris Johnson's own praise of the migrant workers who saved the Prime Minister's life is putting him in an awkward position in trying to defend the charge. More than 60,000 new Covid-19 infections are happening a week in England. The number from the Covid-19 Infection Survey, which is led by the Office for National Statistics, is far higher than the number of confirmed positive tests announced by the Government daily. Health authorities are now claiming Downing Street is in a race against time to get its delayed track and trace system up and running. The Evening Standard's Nicholas Cecil says it may have to go ahead without the app that was supposed to be the centrepiece of the entire thing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK's track and trace app, which was due to launch around now, appears to be being delayed. It's supposed to form a major part of the country's fight back against coronavirus, by alerting people who have come into contact with someone infected by Covid-19. But following trials on the Isle of Wight, the government now says it could be "several weeks" away from being rolled out nationwide. We speak to Isle of Wight resident Richard May who is one of those who have been using the app, and ask what experience he's had with it. Professor Erin Bromage's advice on how to survive the coronavirus pandemic at the start of lockdown was read by 13 million people in a week. As countries all over the world now begin easing restrictions, he gives the podcast his advice on how to minimise risk in the workplace and classrooms. Why do people need to avoid shouting in the office, and should schools really ban singing at end of year concerts? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Standing on the South Bank, the Globe theatre is one of London’s most iconic landmarks, as well as being an international cultural giant. Now it’s under very real threat. It says the coronavirus pandemic has left it “critically vulnerable” and urgently needs 5 million pounds just to keep running. Evening Standard Arts Editor Nancy Durrant joins the podcast to explain what is at risk.Air BridgesIt may be very different, but the summer in the UK could have at least a familiar feel. The Environment Secretary has hinted that pubs could open in July – with social distancing in place - and the Transport secretary Grant Shapps has given his backing to so-called Air Bridges, which could allow travel between countries with low Covid-19 rates. That idea was first floated by conservative MP Huw Merriman, who is the chairman of the Commons Transport Select committee. He joins The Leader podcast to explain the idea - and why it means you could take a summer holiday without the need to quarantine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Law was a 17th century banker who murdered a rival in London, escaped jail and ended up in Paris where he bankrupted France, arguably causing the revolution. How can his story influence decisions over the UK economy as the country attempts to recover from coronavirus? Economist Stephen King tells the podcast about the lessons still being learned from that fiasco, and explains how a "bad bank" that takes on British company debts in exchange for the government taking a stake in the firm, could be a good idea.  Horse-drawn carriages in London's streets and skateboarding commuters are some of the ideas being floated for getting people back to work. There have been more trains running, but fewer people seem to be using them, as fears over the continuing spread of Covid-19 prove difficult to beat. Evening Standard features writer Sam Fishwick gives advice on alternative ways to get to the office, from walking and cycling to more creative suggestions.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Horrific figures revealing 12,000 deaths from coronavirus in care homes in England and Wales since the crisis began have re-ignited appeals for staff and patients to get better protection from the infection. The numbers are from the Office for National Statistics who are warning they're still "looking into" it and could announce an even higher figure soon. The Evening Standard's deputy political editor, Nicholas Cecil, says Number 10's promising action, but Labour says it's far too late. The covid-19 infection rate in London appears to be falling to just 24 new cases a day, but that's not releasing the pressure on mayor Sadiq Khan. A £1.6 billion bail-out deal with the government's rescued Transport for London, but come with several strings attached. There'll be a review of finances, a commitment to run a 100% service as soon as possible, and government public health warnings will replace the mayor's own ones in stations. Fares are to go up, and free travel be slashed back. Comment editor Susannah Butter interviewed Mr Khan while was waiting for the government's deal, and she tells us how difficult the mayor's future looks.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 A new antibody test for covid-19's been called a "game changer" by the Prime Minister, but is he overstating its impact? It can tell if someone's had the virus, but that doesn't necessarily mean you're immune. One of the UK's top scientists, Professor Danny Altmann from the British Society for Immunology, tells the podcast the public shouldn't raise its hopes too high. Circus tents and festival marquees are among suggestions being made by architects to help schools get going again. They're being recommended as headteachers work out how to hold classes while keeping children two metres apart. The Evening Standard's education editor Anna Davis says the ideas could help teachers who are alarmed about an education gap they fear is growing between children whoare being home-schooled and those who are not. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are some people so badly affected by Covid-19 while others barely notice they're sick at all, and how can we use that to fight the virus? That's what teams of scientists are trying to find out as they attempt to map the genomes of 35,000 people who have been through the disease. Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, head scientist at Genomics England, tells us what they're doing and how you can get involved He also warns the UK could be just "a week to ten days" away from a second peak. London commuter ‘I don’t feel safe at all’ on return to work:Buses were standing room only and some train carriages packed as people returned to work with lockdown restrictions being eased. What's it like to be one of those venturing out after weeks inside, and how safe do people really feel? We speak to Janine Lowy, an interior designer with asthma who is trying to avoid public transport, but can't get away from the traffic jams.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The country is being told to get ready to go back to work, but no-one seems to know how people are supposed to get there. Social distancing appears impossible on trains, cycling or walking is impractical for many, and although the Prime Minister is encouraging cars he has no suggestions on where to park. The Evening Standard's associate editor Julian Glover says commuting in the new world needs new rules, and someone has to take responsibility for writing them. International Nurses DayOn International Nurses Day The Leader podcast speaks to the director of the Florence Nightingale museum, David Green, to discover how the Lady of the Lamp's work is influencing the world's response to the coronavirus pandemic. He also tells us how the museum itself is struggling during lockdown - and is perilously close to shutting down. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government is facing a backlash after changing its coronavirus messaging from "stay at home" to "stay alert”. But could ministers really have done any better? Marketing consultant Neil Taylor, who counts coming up with the name 'Ocado' in his credits, tells us how the country is entering a much more complicated phase of the coronavirus strategy that needs more nuanced public messaging. He also argues even Lord Kitchener's WW1 message "Your Country Needs You" would have been criticised on social media today for being too vague. French holidays:Fancy a trip to France this summer? The governments of the UK and France have signed a deal to encourage travel between the two countries without the need to quarantine on the return trip. Shanghai’s Disneyland has just reopened - with social distancing measures - so could Disneyland Paris be next? The Leader podcast spoke to the Evening Standard’s Jonathan Prynn to find out if we should start dusting off our passports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the UK commemorates the 75th anniversary of VE day, are we living through this generation's defining moment? Evening Standard columnist Matthew D'Ancona reflects on what can be learned from not just the moment of victory in Europe, but the struggles the country faced after it. With Boris Johnson expected to ease some lockdown rules next week, he believes we face our toughest challenge yet, and future generations will judge us on our decisions. Hotels are hoping to re-open before the end of the summer, and welcome in those who have been desperate for a break since social isolation began. But the Evening Standard's consumer business editor Jonathan Prynn says the experience is going to be very different, with receptions scrapped and restaurants closed in favour of room service. With the Bank of England also warning of the sharpest recession on record heading the UK's way, how many people will be in a position to rent a room anyway?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Neil Ferguson, one of the UK's leading Covid-19 experts, has resigned from the government's SAGE advisory panel after getting caught breaking his own lockdown rules. Critics say he couldn't continue in the face of accusations of hypocrisy as the general public continues to self-isolate. But how does his stepping down make the country safer? The Evening Standard's associate editor Julian Glover argues he should have held his ground , and the UK needs to accept flawed people can make good decisions. Rory Stewart has dropped out of the London mayoral race claiming pandemic restrictions in the city make it "impossible" to campaign for an already delayed election. He announced the decision with an article in the Evening Standard, and hasn't yet given any other candidate his endorsement. Our City Hall editor Ross Lydall breaks down what the move means for the rest of the runners, including how Sadiq Khan could be the one with the most to gain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government’s furlough scheme has been a lifeline for businesses and individuals during lockdown - but it can’t continue forever. Taxpayers are meeting the wages of 6.3 million people at a cost of around £8 billion. The Evening Standard has revealed the government’s now looking at ways to taper off the subsidy, starting with reducing it from 80 percent of an employees wage to 60 percent. What will this mean for small businesses? Craig Beaumont from the Federation of Small Businesses joins the Leader podcast.In order to lift the lockdown, the UK must pass five tests: does the NHS have enough capacity; has there been a sustained and consistent fall in daily deaths, is the rate of infection decreasing, is there enough PPE to meet demand, is there a risk of a second peak? So how close are we? The Evening Standard’s deputy political editor has been running the numbers, and joins The Leader podcast to share what he’s found. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government appears to be getting ready to put the country back to work - but how can that be done, and when will it happen? As a tracing app goes live on the Isle of Wight this week, it's understood Boris Johnson is preparing a speech for Sunday that will outline his strategy to lift the lockdown. The Evening Standard's political editor Joe Murphy tells The Leader podcast it will involve relaxing the two metre rule for social distancing, a reduction in hot-desking, and a ban on borrowing other people's pens. If the offices are going back, what about the schools? There's no confirmed date for pupils returning to classes, but headteachers all over the country are starting preparations, with some expecting lessons to resume in July. We speak to Charles Fillingham, head of Francis Holland School in Regent's Park, on how they'll be handling social distancing, and whether he expects all the children to come back on the first day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In what could be a decisive move against coronavirus, full-scale tracking and tracing of new infections is planned by the end May. It will see people using an app, and the government deploying tens of thousands of officials to chase down fresh outbreaks. It comes as testing is ramped up across the UK. The Evening Standard's political editor, Joe Murphy, explains how the system will work, and also discusses his exclusive interview with Labour's new leader Sir Keir Starmer. US President Donald Trump is undermining his own intelligence service with a claim he's seen evidence Covid-19 broke out of a lab in China. The office of the National Intelligence Director says there's nothing to suggest the virus is "genetically modified or manmade," and most scientists think it was transferred to humans from animals. But the President's approval ratings have been falling as infections increase in the US. So is this more about winning the election in November than investigating the origins of the outbreak? We ask US politics expert Dr Rubrick Biegon from Kent University. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London mayor Sadiq Khan joins us on the podcast to talk about the future of the city after lockdown. He's written an opinion article for the Evening Standard, outlining the challenges being faced by the people, transport and businesses. He's calling for financial support from the UK government, including extending furloughing "long into the future" but how will that be paid for? We also ask if the tube and busses are ready for commuters returning to work, after the London Strategic Co-ordination group warned the network could be "rapidly overwhelmed" because of social distancing needs. Colonel Tom Moore has celebrated his 100th birthday. To mark the occasion, he was treated to a flypast by Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft, and yesterday received a promotion for his efforts which have raised more than £30 million for NHS charities. The Leader podcast speaks to the Evening Standard’s Lizzie Edmonds on Colonel Moore’s journey into the limelight - including being the first centenarian to feature on a Number One single - and why he has become so dear to our hearts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.