The Standard

Royal Mail has been cleared to be taken into foreign ownership for the first time in its 508-year history.Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky was given the green light by ministers to buy Royal Mail’s parent company International Distributions Services in a £3.6 billion deal, likely to be signed early next year.What will it mean for Britain’s postal service and the price of sending a letter?In part two, planning consent has been approved for the Square Mile building known as 1 Undershaft, which will rise to 1,008ft - nearly 310 metres - and equal the height of the Shard across the river at London Bridge. We’re joined by The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast’s round-up special edition. In this episode:Assad flees Syria: what now for Middle East after rebels topple regime?Ivy League graduate Luigi Mangione charged with UnitedHealthcare boss NYC murderSilvertown & Blackwall tunnel tolls: future cost of London driving revealedFarmers’ new London protest against Labour ‘tractor tax’Fabric 25th anniversary: new book on east London superclubMarie Antoinette’s £24 million ‘smartwatch’ & first moon map Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transport for London has announced fare increases for Tube travellers next year at more than double the rate of inflation.Mayor Sadiq Khan confirmed the cost of travelling on the Underground, London Overground and Elizabeth line would increase at double the rate of inflation - but bus fares remain frozen, stay tuned for details.The London Standard’s transport editor, Ross Lydall, interviewed the mayor following Friday’s announcement, and joins us to examine cost, policy and politics.In part two, the Science Museum’s curatorial lead of exhibitions Dr Glyn Morgan on Versailles: Science and Splendour, which includes a late 18th Century Breguet No.160 watch created for Marie Antoinette - once valued at almost £24 million. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Evgeny Lebedev meets Dr. John Krystal, professor of neuroscience at the Yale School of Medicine, to discuss Ketamine, what it is, and how it can solve a mental health epidemic.  This is a special preview taken from our sister podcast, Brave New World. To hear the interview in full just search: Brave New World Evening Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thousands of farmers converged on Westminster as tractors made a slow drive through central London on Wednesday afternoon in the second protest against Labour’s inheritance tax reforms.Farmers travelled from across the country amid anger about the plans against the so-called ‘tractor tax’ announced in last month’s Budget, which will see farms lose inheritance tax relief on assets over £1 million.The Standard podcast has analysis of the issue with Simon Smith, a land agent and senior lecturer at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester.In part two, author Joe Muggs on his new book chronicling 25 years of London electronic music superclub Fabric. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New York prosecutors have filed a murder charge against an Ivy League graduate suspected of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was gunned down outside a Manhattan hotel last Wednesday.Luigi Mangione, 26, was apprehended after a quick-thinking McDonald’s employee in Altoona, Pennsylvania, allegedly recognised him from a surveillance photo.Police said he was found with a gun believed to be of the same 3D-printed kind used in the killing of Thompson, as well as a fake New Jersey driver's licence and three-page handwritten manifesto in his backpack, which police said suggested anger with corporate America. Hear details of the arrest and NYPD manhunt.In part two, London’s biggest new road infrastructure project will be open for drivers to use soon - but there’s a catch, it won’t be free.The £2 billion Silvertown Tunnel in east London, nearly a mile long, is planned to ease congestion for vehicles crossing the Thames.But when it opens in the spring, motorists will have to pay up along with those also using the 130-year-old Blackwall Tunnel under the river, as part of new tolls levied by Transport for London. We’re joined by the The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Syrians awoke on Monday to hope - but also uncertainty - after the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham seized the capital Damascus.Dictator President Bashar al-Assad reportedly fled to Russia, following 13 years of civil war and more than 50 years of his family’s brutal rule.As rescuers search for tens of thousands of prisoners held in the regime’s underground torture prisons in horrific conditions, what now for post-Assad Syria?Plus, how will the weekend’s events impact the wider Middle East crisis - and will HTS see its terrorist designation removed by countries including the UK?We’re joined The London Standard’s defence editor, Robert Fox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast’s round-up special edition. In this episode:President Joe Biden pardons son Hunter, sparing him a possible prison sentence for gun and tax convictionsBritish drivers will see a shake-up of the road tax rules in the spring, with a new emissions-based charging system and EV drivers paying for first timeVictims of the crime of stalking are to be given better protection including the right to know the identity of their online harasser as part of new legal protections unveiled by the Home OfficeLondon’s most expensive ever residential development, in Mayfair, where prices start at £35 millionThree rail companies serving London commuters will be renationalised by Labour next yearSurge in norovirus cases reported by the UK Health Security AgencyPM Starmer pledges every neighbourhood in England and Wales will have a named, contactable police officer.UCL study reveals link between social media posting and mental health problems. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of The Bigger Life Festival, brought to you by Masterclasses from The London Standard, host Nicola Barron is joined by manifestation expert Salarah Starre, who’s leading a special workshop at the event. With 'manifest' named Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year for 2024, Salarah explains why it's gaining so much attention, the fundamentals behind it, and how you can start applying manifestation techniques to your life.The Bigger Life Festival kicks off in January with a series of live, interactive workshops designed to help you start the new year with purpose. From wellness to career advice, there’s something to inspire every part of your life. Early bird passes are available now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The prime minister has pledged every neighbourhood in England and Wales will have a named, contactable police officer, as part of his “plan for change” outlined on Thursday.In a speech billed as setting out the “next phase” of Labour's government, Sir Keir Starmer detailed ambitious “milestones” for achieving the five missions laid out in Labour’s manifesto - also including targeting hospital backlogs, domestic energy creation and giving children a better start in life.Sir Keir's new officers pledge comes with £100 million to support neighbourhood policing.But will this be enough to cover funding for the planned 13,000 recruits - and what about the wider justice system, such as more investment in courts infrastructure?The Standard podcast is joined by Tyrone Steele, deputy legal director of Justice, the cross-party law reform and human rights charity.In part two, University College London research finds adults who post frequently on social media are at greater risk of developing mental health problems than those who passively view content - The London Standard's health reporter Daniel Keane discusses his exclusive report on the study. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three rail companies serving London commuters will be renationalised by Labour next year - with a fourth also in the government's sights - under a “major shake-up” of British railways. It's claimed renationalisation will save £150 million in management fees alone. So, how will Labour's Great British Railways project impact journeys, delays, ticket prices and the prospect of train strikes? Mark Blunden is joined by The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall.In part two, our health reporter Daniel Keane on a surge in norovirus cases reported by the UK Health Security Agency, but slightly more heartening news for the recovery of young people suffering from long Covid, revealed in a UCL study. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victims of the crime of stalking are to be given better protection including the right to know the identity of their online harasser.New legal protections unveiled by the Home Office also include Stalking Protection Orders and a ban on contacting victims from prison.In this episode, we’re joined broadcaster and activist Nicola Thorp, who's also a former star of Coronation Street, to discuss her experience of being stalked online.Thorp's ordeal helped inspire the ‘Right to Know’ guidance for police, after data protection laws hampered her discovering vital details about the stalker.The Standard podcast also speaks with the Suzy Lamplugh Trust’s director of services and development, Catherine McLaughlin, after the charity brought a ‘super-complaint’ with other organisations to demand better support for victims.In part two, The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn on London’s most expensive ever residential development, in Mayfair, where prices start at £35 million – around 70 times the average cost of a home in the capital.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Biden has pardoned his son, Hunter, sparing him a possible prison sentence for gun and tax convictions and reversing his past promises not to use the powers of the presidency for the benefit of his family.The Democratic president had previously said he would interfere in the justice process after Hunter’s convictions in the two federal cases in Delaware and California. The “full and unconditional pardon” comes weeks before Hunter Biden was set to receive to be sentenced after his trial conviction in the gun case - with much of the incriminating material coming from his notorious laptop - and guilty plea on tax charges. The u-turn comes less than two months before President-elect Donald Trump is set to return to the White House.The Standard podcast is joined by Professor Gina Yannitell Reinhardt, US politics and public policy expert at the University of Essex.In part two, British drivers will see a shake-up of the road tax rules in the spring, with a new emissions-based charging system and EV drivers paying for the first time.We hear both sides of the debate, with Brian Mooney, campaign manager at Fair Deal for the Motorist, and David Bailey, professor of business economics at the Birmingham Business School. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast’s round-up special edition, where we bring you the news highlights from the week that was.It began with nightmare weather as Storm Bert continued to bring disruption into Monday following winds over 80mph and torrential downpours caused “devastating” flooding over the weekend, in which five people were believed to have died.Continuing our reports on the future of Oxford Street, we looked at mayor Sadiq Khan’s hiring plans for some very well remunerated jobs to create a “commercial model” and help envision his pedestrianisation plans.Tuesday brought the announcement of a government white paper on wide-ranging reforms designed to tackle economic inactivity in a bid to bring more than two million people back into work.We also looked at whether Black Friday sales promotions were all they seemed, the closure of London’s historic Smithfield meat market after more than 900 years and spoke with a former British Army officer who had a stroke at 28 and is now skiing to the South Pole, plus Bafta winner Kit Young on starring in a new London interpretation of Shakespeare’s All’s Well That Ends Well at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse - and getting his new award through airport security.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louise Haigh has become the first person to resign from Sir Keir Starmer’s cabinet.Haigh announced she was standing down on Friday after it was revealed by Sky News and The Times she had a conviction for making a false statement to the police that her work mobile phone was among her possessions stolen during a London mugging in 2013.She pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation while a parliamentary candidate in 2014, before being elected MP for Sheffield Heeley the following year.The London’s Standard’s chief political correspondent Rachael Burford reports on the circumstances of the case.Following Haigh’s resignation, Heidi Alexander, MP for Swindon South, was named the new transport secretary, after previously work as Sadiq Khan’s deputy transport mayor from 2018 to 2021.Our transport editor Ross Lydall explains Alexander’s work in the capital, and what will she find in her DfT in-tray.In part two, we’re joined by actor Kit Young, on his role in Shakespeare’s All’s Well That End’s Well at London’s Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, learning a fictional language and getting his Bafta award through airport security. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're previewing another episode from season three of Brave New World. Evgeny Lebedev is joined by Peter Attia: a longevity expert, physician, and bestselling author.They discuss “Medicine 3.0” — Peter's blueprint for good health — and how happiness is essential to longevity, not just a bonus. “It doesn’t matter how healthy you are,” Peter says, “if the most important relationships in your life are not happy.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London’s historic Smithfield meat market is set to pull down the shutters for good after over 900 years of trading.The City of London Corporation, which owns the site, voted to stop operating both Smithfield in Farringdon and also Billingsgate fish market in Poplar.Both markets will continue to operate until 2028, and while the corporation had previously planned to relocate both markets to a new £1 billion new site in Dagenham, now the plans for both sites are on hold.The Standard podcast is joined by Save Britain’s Heritage director Henrietta Billings, to discuss the future of the listed Smithfield site.In part two, we speak with former elite para-athlete skier Jonny Huntington, about his bid to become the first disabled person to ski solo and unsupported over 560 miles in 40 days to the South Pole, after he battled back from a stroke at just 28 years old. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has announced wide-ranging reforms designed to tackle economic inactivity in a bid to bring more than two million people back into work.The £55 million drive will overhaul the job search process, expand NHS mental health support in the most needed regions and tackle obesity.Other plans include providing additional employment and training opportunities for the young people of ‘generation Covid’ .But does this clash with business leaders’ warnings about job cuts fuelled by the first Labour budget’s tax hikes? The Standard podcast is joined by Tom Pollard, head of social policy at the New Economics Foundation.In part two, Which? consumer expert Rob Lilley-Jones on why Black Friday deals could offer same value at other times of year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Storm Bert continued to bring disruption into Monday after as winds over 80mph and torrential downpours caused “devastating” flooding over the weekend.Five people are believed to have died in the storm and around 160 flood alerts remain in place across England and Wales, where a council leader was among those criticising the Met Office for not upgrading the storm from a yellow to red alert.The Standard podcast is joined by Heather Shepherd, a flood recovery specialist and consultant.In part two, The London Standard’s City Hall editor Ross Lydall on mayor Sadiq Khan’s hiring plans for some very well remunerated jobs - one paying an almost £100,000 salary - to help him seize control of Oxford Street to create a “commercial model” and help envision his pedestrianisation plans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to The Standard podcast’s special edition, where we bring you news highlights from the week that was.Headlines were dominated by escalating moves in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, policies around Kyiv’s use of powerful British-American missiles in the war, and Moscow’s retaliation with what the Kremlin says is a new type of hypersonic weapon.Here in Britain, we looked at the impacted of shocks to the energy market and our household bills that the war, as well as the recent cold snap, has caused.There was also continuing domestic anger about the first Rachel Reeves budget, as thousands of farmers marched on Westminster in protest at Labour’s so-called ‘tractor tax’ on inheritance. You’ll also hear our interview with Andrea Sella, professor of chemistry at UCL about the impact of methanol on the body after six people died after drinking alleged ‘tainted’ alcohol shots at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos.Plus, inside one of the capital’s Lime e-bikes maintenance depots and could pondlife bacteria be repurposed to power space lasers? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A sixth person has died after allegedly drinking 'tainted alcohol shots' suspected of being laced with poisonous methanol during a backpacking holiday in Laos.All are thought to have died after allegedly ingesting the drinks at the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, Laos, where online reviews mention “free unlimited shots”.The hostel manager and owner have reportedly been detained by police.Rachelle Abbott interviewed Andrea Sella, professor of chemistry at University College London, about acute dangers of methanol consumption and its impact on the human body.In part two, The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall discusses the latest data on London’s busiest railway stations, and visits Liverpool Street to report on the latest redevelopment plans amid a forecast passenger boom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kyiv claims Russia launched a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time in an attack on Ukraine, but that account has reportedly been disputed by US officials.The powerful weapon is believed to have been fired from Russia’s southern Astrakhan region during a morning attack on Thursday at the central-eastern city of Dnipro -  at a time of escalation in the 33-month-old invasion launched by Russia in Ukraine.But the ICBM claim has been disputed by the Americans, with a senior US official telling the New York Times that the weapon appeared to be an intermediate-range ballistic missile, who however added that it was “a new type we have been tracking”.It comes after Ukraine used American Atacms and British Storm Shadow missiles to strike targets inside Russia this week, something Moscow had warned for months would be seen as a major escalation.Just hours later, Vladimir Putin approved­ an updated Russian nuclear doctrine lowering the threshold for the use of nuclear strikes.We’re joined by The London Standard’s defence editor Robert Fox, who discusses the strike, Russia capabilities and why the UK government must “level with the public” to address people’s worries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK inflation has risen to its highest level since April driven by an increase in household energy bills, according to official figures.The Office for National Statistics said Consumer Prices Index inflation rose to 2.3 per cent for October, up from 1.7 per cent in the previous month.It is the sharpest month-on-month increase in the rate of inflation for two years.So, what’s behind this jump, and what does 2025 hold for energy bills and Bank of England interest rates?The Standard podcast is joined by Theo Harris, a researcher in economic and environmental policy at the New Economics Foundation think-tank.In part two, six new London Overground lines, each with a new name and colour, were being rolled out by Transport for London on Wednesday.Mayor Sadiq Khan says the £6.3 million rebrand will make it easier for passengers to find their way on the Overground and to “celebrate” London’s culture and recent history - but does it offer passengers value for money?The London Standard’s transport editor, Ross Lydall, discusses the new direction for London’s orange line, which was delayed after a cyberattack against TfL. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thousands of British farmers marched on Westminster as tractors converged in central London to protest against Labour plans to end inheritance tax exemption.Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced last month in the budget that farmers with land worth more than £1 million will no longer be able to leave their farms to their children tax free from 2026.We’re joined from Westminster by The London Standard’s chief political correspondent Rachael Burford, who’s been covering the protest.In part two, electric Lime bikes have overtaken Boris bikes as London’s preferred method of pay-as-you-go transport on two wheels.But it comes amid complaints about bikes being ditched across pavements and riders jumping red lights - so what’s the firm’s future in the capital?The London Standard’s transport editor visits Lime’s servicing depot in White Hart Lane, Tottenham, to find out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cabinet minister Bridget Phillipson stressed Britain was giving “full backing” to Ukraine amid a report that it will join America in allowing Kyiv to fire West-supplied long-range missiles into Russia.Outgoing US president Joe Biden’s decision could see long-range missiles used initially in the Kursk region of Russia, where Ukrainian troops seized a swathe of territory in a surprise attack in the summer - ahead of Donald Trump taking office in January.So, where does this leave British policy now, after many months of holding off approval for its version of the American ATACMS weapons, known as Storm Shadow?We’re joined from Parliament by The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil. In part two, we speak with Erik Gauger, professor in quantum theory at Heriot-Watt university’s Institute of Photonics and quantum sciences in Edinburgh, about an innovative space energy project.Researchers are seeking to use bacteria more usually found in ponds on earth help convert sunlight into laser beams to send power across space- could the technology be used on future Mars missions?  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Evgeny Lebedev joins Dr Aubrey de Grey, a pioneer in biomedical gerontology - the study of life extension and rejuvenation - and co-founder of the SENS Research Foundation.Known for his radical approach to ageing, Dr de Grey discusses his latest research, society’s attitude to the human lifespan and his hopes for future anti-ageing treatments.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The temperature in London next week is set to plummet into chilly single digits.But what effect is this cold weather having on our brains - and what can we do to keep our wellbeing levels topped up as the mercury drops, stave off seasonal depression and ensure our bodies enjoy a regular rest pattern in order to reboot effectively?It comes after the ‘anticyclonic gloom’ loomed over the capital, when fog and grey clouds blotted out the sun.Rachelle Abbott asked neuroscientist Dr Henry Mahncke, chief executive of ‘brain fitness’ platform BrainHQ, about winter’s impact on the brain and our mental health.You’ll also hear Dr Mahncke’s top tips for boosting mood and staying more balanced during the colder months. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today marks the launch of The London Standard’s 2024 Winter Appeal, in collaboration with Comic Relief. The campaign’s aim is to help organisations in London and across the UK that support refugees and homeless people. In this episode we’re joined by our campaigns editor, David Cohen, and CEO of Comic Relief, Samir Patel.We also hear of Claude's story. One of the organisations we are backing is The Running Charity, which uses the power of running to help both refugees and those who are homeless to build mental health, confidence and fitness — and where Claude now works as programme manager and head coach. The group will be given a grant of £50,000 to assist its work of mentoring more than 120 vulnerable people aged 16 to 25 each year.To make a donation, visit comicrelief.com/winter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victims of the Church of England’s worst ever child abuser have demanded further resignations after the Archbishop of Canterbury quit in ‘shame’ over the scandal.Justin Welby had been under days of pressure after a damning review into attacks by barrister John Smyth QC - who died in South Africa 2018 - that found he may have been brought to justice had Welby formally alerted authorities in 2013.Over decades from the 1970s, Smyth, a lay church reader, subjected as many as 130 boys and young men in the UK and Africa to sadistic physical, sexual and psychological attacks, the independent Makin review found.So, why did the scandal take so long to come to light, what are the victims calling for, and what is future for the Church of England?We’re joined by Melanie McDonagh, a columnist at The London Standard, and a leader writer at the Catholic Herald.In part two, president-elect Donald Trump has handed Elon Musk the job of running a new Department of Government Efficiency, as part of his new cabinet.The London Standard’s deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi discusses the focus of Musk’s new role and whether there are potential conflicts of interest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second incarnation of president-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet is taking shape.The London Standard’s deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi reports on Tuesday that Team Trump 2.0 ushers in potentially dismal consequences for Ukraine, illegal immigrants and the global climate.Trump has already announced a few cabinet-level appointments - so, who’s in?Joshi joins us to discuss what we know about the Republican president-elect’s appointments so far, and whether there’s anyone who could be considered a voice of American unity in Trump’s new inner circle.In part two, as The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall reports that buses in central London are now nudging below 7mph - as detailed in London TravelWatch data - so, how is this impacting passenger journeys, now slower than a decade ago?We also discuss the various factors contributing congestion, including on-demand minicabs and internet deliveries, plus whether cycle lanes impact traffic flow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer joined French president Emmanuel Macron for Armistice Day commemorations in Paris - the first time a British leader attended the remembrance event in the French capital since Winston Churchill with Charles de Gaulle in 1944.They met French and British veterans as part of commemorations for the 106th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice, with services held across the UK following Remembrance Sunday.The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses the significance of Sir Keir’s Paris visit, bilateral defence talks and the current health L’Entente Cordiale.In part two, thousands of delegates are heading to Baku in Azerbaijan for the Cop29 climate summit, where politicians face pressure over delivering finance for developing countries to cope with climate change, and increasing their ambitions on emissions cuts. The Standard podcast is joined by Simon Lewis, professor of global change science at UCL, to discuss the summit goals, its controversial host, the importance of climate multilateralism and why the UK’s Cop29 involvement under Labour marks a “sea-change” from the Conservatives’ environmental outlook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Barron delves into the fascinating world of negotiation with Simon Horton, a globally recognised negotiation skills trainer. In this episode, Simon shares strategies for achieving win-win outcomes, building trust, and knowing when to walk away. Simon reveals the secrets to effective negotiation that you can use in both personal and professional settings.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Standard’s lifestyle and culture writer, India Block, has been looking into the growing problem of ‘mankeeping’. A new term from Stanford researchers which describes how women are bearing the brunt when it comes to male loneliness. In part two, our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, explains everything you need to know about Susie Wells, Donald Trump’s first appointment and the first female chief of staff. Plus he discusses the rumours about whether Elon Musk could be getting a role in Trump’s new administration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ITV’s Until I Kill You, starring Anna Maxwell Martin, has gripped audiences across the country. But, how does the hit drama compare to the true story behind it? Our culture writer Vicky Jessop has the details. In part two, The London Standard’s Will Hosie catches up with the star of Emily in Paris, Lily Collins, as part of our 100 people shaping London in 2024 series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In JD Vance’s words, Donald Trump has pulled off ‘the greatest political comeback in US history’, and will be the next president of the United States. He’s the first person in over a century to secure two non-consecutive terms, since Grover Cleveland in 1897. Andrew Rudalevige, professor of government at Bowdoin College in Maine, joins us from the US to analyse Donald Trump’s ‘historic’ victory, and discuss what his second term as president will look like for America and the rest of the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s election day in the US and polls suggest that it’s neck and neck between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, joins us to discuss what role the Supreme Court could play in this extremely close race.  In part two, Nick Curtis, the Standard’s Chief Theatre Critic, gives his verdict on the latest movie installment from Britain’s most famous bear, Paddington in Peru.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, discusses the most pivotal moments from an extraordinary campaign trail. There’s been assassination attempts, court cases, high-profile blunders, a new Democratic nominee, and plenty of drama. But, where does this all leave the presidential race now? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Barron joins one of the UK's most respected literary agents, Juliet Mushens, to talk about the publishing world and her upcoming Masterclass for The Standard. Juliet shares her expertise and gives practical advice for aspiring authors.Topics include:The role of literary agentsTips on submitting your manuscript and catching an agent’s attentionInsider advice for those just starting their writing journeyWhat to expect from Juliet’s upcoming Masterclass, "How to Get Published: Finding a Literary Agent for Your Novel"Whether you're just dreaming of becoming an author or have a completed manuscript ready to go, Juliet’s insights offer invaluable guidance for every stage of the writing process. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World, Evgeny Lebedev is in conversation with the Oscar-winning actor, Dame Helen Mirren.They discuss everything from the evolution of technology, ageing, the contemporary media landscape and the idea of God.“It’s so sad that Kurt Cobain died when he did, because he never got to see GPS”Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The London Standard is unveiling The Standard 100, a list of the top hundred men and women shaping the capital in 2024.The line-up covers the variety of expertise and knowledge that make our capital great - from politics and media, the arts, music, food, to science and medicine.In this episode, we hear from our editor-in-chief Dylan Jones, and Charlotte Hill, chief executive of food redistribution charity The Felix Project, who features on today’s list.The charity gave out the equivalent of 32 million meals to people across every London borough.Over the next few months, we’ll be showcasing more people from the list, so make sure you keep an eye on our feed.To view the full list pick up a copy of this week’s paper, or head to standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced £40billion of tax rises in Labour’s first budget for nearly 15 years.In a 77-minute speech before a packed House of Commons, the UK’s first female Chancellor of the Exchequer announced massive tax hikes to help “fix the foundations” of the economy.Reeves plans to raise £25 billion from employers’ national insurance contributions plus increases to capital gains tax, while also making changes to inheritance tax and stamp duty.Billions of pounds in public funding was also pledged for the NHS, schools building, the national minimum wage, GB Energy, HMRC reform, cladding removal, defence and compensation for victims of the infected blood and Post Office Horizon scandals.In a boost for London, the Chancellor confirmed that HS2 would be extended via tunnelling to London Euston.It is all part of the government’s plan to tackle the so-called “£22bn black hole” in the public finances.But the opposition Conservatives accused Labour of breaking manifesto pledges. We’re joined by Parliament by The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Budget on Wednesday getting us more focussed about stretching the pennies - who’s splashing out on £1,000-a-night on London’s new five-star hotel suites, amid a building boom? It seems there’s plenty of business at the top-end, with The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn reporting the capital is on the brink of a new luxury hotel “gold rush”, with destinations offering hundreds of five-star rooms and suites due to open over the next 18 months.In part two, could east London’s famed “Blackhorse beer mile” be at risk?The London Standard’s City Hall editor Ross Lydall reports on the fate of two breweries run by The Wild Card Brewery, which were shuttered after bailiffs arrived over apparent rent arrears with Waltham Forest council.Now there are concerns for other local businesses, which also have the council as their landlord. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has given a speech to prepare the ground for the Budget, saying Britain "must embrace the harsh light of fiscal reality".Elsewhere in the Labour party, Mike Amesbury MP has been suspended after CCTV appears to show him repeatedly punching a man. Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, shared his insight. In part two, we have a special preview of The Standard’s series on London’s hidden gems. In this episode we get an exclusive peek inside the Transport for London’s lost property office, and the weird and wonderful things commuters have left behind.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is traveling off-season the best way to go? Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks transport us to Turkey, and we meet two inspiring guests who bring to life why so much good can come from our travels. Selina Pirinccioglu from Alavya hotel tempts us to Alaçati on the Çeşme peninsula, as they reflect on how traveling off-season is better for visitors and locals, and where else she’d like to explore across Turkey.Award-winning author Elif Shafak reminds us of the power of travel to connect with people around the world and emphasises the importance of immersing ourselves in other cultures through fiction, her latest novel is There are Rivers in the Sky.And Doug Lansky - of ReThinkingTourism on YouTube - brings the series to a poignant end with his concept of 'sustainable-ish’. Find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads, or have a look at Juliet’s Instagram @JulietKinsman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lorry ‘blind spots’ continue to present serious hazards for London’s cyclists. The London Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall examines why haulage companies have been given more time by TfL to tackle vision issues and install camera tech in HGVs being driven in London, despite concerns expressed by cycle campaigners.In part two, The Royal Ballet is currently showcasing a mixed programme of works by 21st century choreographers titled ‘Encounters: Four Contemporary Ballets’, which runs until November 22nd. The Standard podcast is joined by former alumnus of The Royal Ballet Choreographic Residency, Joseph Toonga, who discusses the world premiere his new work at the Royal Opera House, called Dusk, which combines classical ballet and hip hop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of a conversation between the London Standard’s Editor in Chief, Dylan Jones, and former UK Prime Minister, Sir Tony Blair.He discusses themes in his book, On Leadership: Lessons for the 21st Century (which is published by Penguin), and the lessons that can be learned from executive action in government.The book looks at the importance of assembling the right team, effective implementation of policy, and what works and what doesn’t.So, how was negotiation key to securing the Good Friday Agreement, devolution and London mayoralty, and what would the former prime minister have done differently?You’ll also hear discussion on digital ID, the Middle East crisis and if Sir Tony would offer Sir Keir Starmer any advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donald Trump’s claim that the “far-Left” Labour Party in Britain is interfering in the US elections was slapped down by a Cabinet minister on Wednesday.Environment Secretary Steve Reed insisted it was people linked to Labour acting as individuals going out to campaign for Democrat Kamala Harris, not any action organised by the party.The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses Trump’s allegations and Labour’s response, with less than a fortnight to go in the race for the White House.In part two, our crime correspondent Anthony France reports on the ‘wine detectives’ combating an illegal trade in counterfeit luxury wines flooding London, the international gangs involved and how experts spot the fake stuff. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A murder plot targeting a rival gang member allegedly involving Met Police shooting victim Chris Kaba was among revelations about his criminal record that emerged on Tuesday.Kaba's convictions included prison sentences for weapons possession, as well as being subject to a domestic violence order, which surfaced following the judge’s lifting of reporting restrictions.Police firearms officer Martyn Blake was cleared of murder following the fatal shooting in a ‘hard stop’ in south London, but 24-year-old Kaba’s family described feeling a “deep pain of injustice” following the verdict.We’re joined from the Old Bailey by The London Standard’s courts correspondent, Tristan Kirk.In part two, our business editor Jonathan Prynn on the latest plans for 1 Undershaft - the Square Mile’s tallest skyscraper - how objections have changed this lengthy project and demand for space in the capital’s new-build office blocks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A government minister has left open the door to big tax hikes in next week’s Budget hitting high-earners on more than £100,000 - as he refused to say if these high earners were “working people” under Labour’s definition.Care minister Stephen Kinnock was repeatedly asked on Sky News, but gave no clear answer, whether or nor people earning six figures were classified as “working people” by the government.We’re joined by The London Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil from Parliament to discuss the build-up to next week’s first Labour budget under Chancellor Rachel Reeves.Plus, in part two, The Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall has been digging into Transport for London documents.He found the organisation’s being warned the capital’s post-Covid return to the office may have stalled as commuter journey numbers grew only at a snail’s pace. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the fifth episode of our six-part travel series, we visit Marrakech, Fes and Chefchaouen, as sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks discuss how small-group trips allow for immersive experiences. And they explain how responsible tourism can be a great way of supporting the empowerment of women.Experience the magic of a home-made breakfast in a private home in Marrakech's medina, appreciate the charm of a small family-owned hotel in Fes, explore the souks, and get a sense of the cinematic setting of the Blue City in this impact-unlocking Morocco adventure. Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads, or have a look at Juliet’s Instagram @JulietKinsman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.