The Standard

It’s what everyone in the UK wants to know, what is going to be in the Budget? Rumours have been swirling around what Chancellor Rachel Reeves has in store with potential tax rises, including inheritance tax, and National Insurance for employers. The jobs minister, Alison McGovern, has said publicly that benefits are set to be cut. With the welfare bill in Britain set to spiral in coming years and decades, the Chancellor is reported to be seeking billions of pounds in benefits savings.Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, reveals everything we know so far as well as his predictions for the upcoming Budget. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World, host Evgeny Lebedev is joined by Jim Poole, chairman, president and chief executive of Solace Life Sciences.The neuroscience company owns NuCalm, a technology designed to reduce stress and improve sleep without recourse to drugs. You may have even spotted the Duchess of Sussex wearing one of their stress relief patches.In this episode, Evgeny and Jim explore the evolution of the human brain, anxiety and how to deregulate the amygdala, a small, almond-shaped part of the brain that plays a central role, which Jim says ‘feeds on fear’.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s official, England’s new manager is Thomas Tuchel.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss reportedly signed a contract with the FA last week which will see him receive a salary worth around £5 million. Tuchel, who is German, will be just the third foreign manager to become England coach, after the late Sven-Goran Eriksson of Sweden and the Italian manager Fabio Capello. The Standard’s football reporter, Dom Smith, gives his verdict on the appointment, analyses the new manager’s credentials, and reveals the big tests that lie ahead.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this very special episode, The Standard podcast’s Rachelle Abbott is in conversation with the producer, rapper, singer/songwriter and entrepreneur, will.i.am. Plus, they’re also joined by FYI.AI’s Fyilicia. To hear the full extended interview search Tech & Science Daily on your podcast provider, or click here.FYI.AI, which stands for ‘Focus Your Ideas', is a messaging and productivity tool for creatives, founded by will.i.am and software developer, Sunil Reddy.In this episode:will.i.am’s relationship with AIThe story behind FyiliciaThe AI revolution, diversity, inclusivity and what he would say to the next US PresidentFYI is available to download for iOS from the App store and on Android from Google Play Store. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mayor of London sits down with London Standard Editor, Dylan Jones, to talk about all things politics.Sadiq Khan discusses the exodus of the capital’s rich, his goals for his unprecedented third term as mayor, the plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street, as well as issues surrounding housing and traffic.In part two, the Gaza marches, his message to London’s Jewish community, and who he would choose as his successor when he eventually steps down. To read Dylan’s full article click here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Incredible natural environments, cycling through the trees and living among the clouds. Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks discuss the beauty of Ecuador, and how it's a great example of an economy that relies on Tourism. Learn how Ecuador's 'eternal spring' makes the best tasting fruit, and why you should think twice about negative headlines about a destination.Roque Sevilla, former Mayor of Quito, explains how tourism protects the country's biodiversity and natural environments, and why civil disturbances in Ecuador shouldn't impact your decision to travel there.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain’s economy made a welcome return to growth in August after a pick up on the high street and in factories helped drive overall GDP.The London Standard’s business editor Jonathan Prynn reports that output was up by 0.2 per cent in the month following two months of flatlining in June and July, that’s according to latest figures from the Office for National Statistics.It comes a fortnight before Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveils the Labour government’s first budget. Jonathan joins us with an analysis of the data and also discusses the significance of Santander withdrawing its cheapest mortgage deal - what does it signal?In part two, The London Standard’s beauty and wellness editor Madeleine Spencer on secrets from world’s best wellness clinics - that you can try at home - as the nights draw in and the capital’s cold, drying air whistles over our skin.We also discuss the wellbeing weapons deployed by supermodel Kate Moss, plus, the importance of a boiled egg and a good stretch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative leadership race has been narrowed to Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, after once-favourite James Cleverly was squeezed out of the contest - to considerable surprise.Badenoch won 42 votes, Jenrick secured 41, but Cleverly took just 37, with 120 Tory MPs having taken part.So, what’s next, who is best to hold Sir Keir Starmer to account at the dispatch box - and how did James Cleverly’s leadership bid come unstuck?The Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil has the details from a dramatic day in Parliament and assesses the candidates’ chances.In part two, on World Mental Health Day, we’re looking at the impact of stress and anxiety on our lives, and small steps you can take if you’re having a difficult time. The Standard podcast is joined by Neil Shah, founder - and chief de-stressing officer - of the Stress Management Society, who discusses his own personal story, the pressures of the digital world and post-pandemic urban anxiety.If you’re struggling with themes discussed in this podcast, you can find support at samaritans.org and mind.org.uk  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Flights from Britain to Florida have been cancelled as the US state braces for what President Joe Biden warned could be the worst storm in a century.Approaching Category Five Hurricane Milton - just a fortnight after Category Four Hurricane Helene - has brought widespread disruption to the Sunshine State as officials urge residents to follow evacuation orders and airports, including Tampa International and Orlando, have temporarily closed.As this episode of The Standard podcast went live, millions of Floridians were in a race against time to evacuate before the hurricane makes landfall on Wednesday night at speeds of 155mph with 15ft-high storm surges expected.The Standard podcast is joined from Orlando by Jonathan Alingu, co-executive director of Central Florida Jobs With Justice, who explains how Floridans are preparing.In part two, Frieze art fair is back in its huge tent in Regent’s Park for the 21st year and we look at some of the highlights from this celebrated fixture in London’s cultural calendar, with The Standard’s head of culture, Nick Clark. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transport secretary Louise Haigh has signalled the HS2 high-speed line will terminate in central London.She told Times Radio on Tuesday an announcement would be made soon on the controversial under-construction route from Birmingham into the capital - that’s expected at the Budget on October 30.There was uncertainty over HS2’s final stop amid funding worries and whether it would instead be at Old Oak Common further to the west of London.We’re joined by The Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil to discuss the project - forecast to cost over £66 billion - plus, rail nationalisation plans and government assurances over pensioners’ free bus passes.In part two, water companies in England and Wales have been hit with penalties of nearly £158 after regulator Ofwat published its annual performance report into the sector - and they’ve been told to knock the money off customers’ bills.The report revealed firms continue to miss targets on pollution, leaks and customer satisfaction. To find out what this means for consumers and discuss the impact of water privatisation, we’re joined by Dr Eleanor Shearer, senior research fellow at the Common Wealth think tank. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This October 7 marks one year from devastating terror attacks on Israel that set in motion a series of events plunging the Middle East into crisis.Hamas gunmen launched surprise cross-border raids from the Gaza Strip during the Jewish new year holiday of Rosh Hashanah, leaving with more than 1,200 Israelis killed and at least 250 hostages taken.Hostilities mushroomed to claim over 40,000 Palestinian lives, with Hezbollah in Lebanon and then Iran pushing into the conflict.In Britain, the 7 October attacks, were followed by a huge increase in antisemitism and anti-Muslim abuse.As vigils mark this sombre day, The Standard podcast hear reflections from Marie van der Zyl, World Jewish Congress commissioner for gender inclusion and equality, and former president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews.In part two, The Standard’s deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi discusses the weekend departure of Sue Gray, Sir Keir Starmer’s controversial chief of staff, and her successor at No.10, Labour’s election guru Morgan McSweeney. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why fly when you can take the train? In this episode Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks explore the best places to travel to by train and why, including Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden & Scotland. Find out when trains truly are the best option for your trip, and why the pros of travelling along the tracks often outweigh the cons of flying.Tine Murn the former director of the Slovenian tourism board explains his romantic view of train travel, and creating his own office among views of the alps in a comfortable carriage and incredible.Plus, executive producer of Green Traveller productions Richard Hammond explains the 'rail renaissance' underway in Europe, and explains how rail and coach travel is better for the planet and your pocket.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rising tensions in the Middle East are adding new global economic uncertainties. The pound, while recovering slightly on Friday, remained set for its worst week in more than a year - as oil heads for the biggest weekly price increase since 2023.It came as Israel intensified strikes on Lebanon following Iran’s missile barrage and ongoing Hezbollah rocket attacks. The Standard podcast is joined by Dr James Meadway, economist at the Progressive Economy Forum, to examine the financial forecast.In part two, hear some of the soundscapes visitors to a high-tech immersive art installation at Lumen Studios close to Tower Bridge can experience.Spanning over 1,000 square metres, the ticketed Eclipse show by French-Japanese visual art duo Nonotak explore the boundary between art and technology as visitors step into a show filled with darkness, light beams and sound. Jen Roebuck, chief executive of Bermondsey’s Lumen Studios, discusses the installation and our growing appetite for IRL immersive art. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World….Why AI is the future of medicine. Alternative medicine advocate and best-selling author Deepak Chopra joins host Evgeny Lebedev, to discuss why artificial intelligence is the key to unlocking both personal and spiritual growth, and why humanity is at a crucial crossroads with technology.The health and wellness expert has been at the intersection of science and spirituality for nearly 50 years and recently released his 95th book, titled Digital Dharma. Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the world awaits Israel’s response to rocket attacks by Iran, what role did British forces play defending the country?In this episode of The Standard podcast we’ll also look at the UK government’s handling of the crisis, with Britons told to leave Lebanon as Israel continues to pound Tehran-backed Hezbollah and ground operations begin.Around 180 Iranian rockets were fired on Tuesday night as Iran’s response to Israel’s assassination of Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, and follows devastating pager-based attacks against the terror group.Evening Standard defence editor Robert Fox explains the significance of Iran’s rocket barrage targeting Israel.In part two, the average UK household energy bill has now increased by £149 after Ofgem raised its price cap just as the winter months begin. The Standard podcast is joined by Jonathan Marshall​​​, principal economist at the Resolution Foundation think-tank, who discuss context of the latest increase. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the penultimate day of the Conservatives’ conference in Birmingham, where the final four leadership hopefuls are vying for attentions of the party faithful.Yesterday, we looked at the free ‘merch’ being offered on candidates’ stalls - those friendship bracelets and fake tan - but will these multiple charm offensives translate into votes?Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Robert Jenrick and Tom Tugendhat have been fielding questions from voting party members at conference events ahead of the leadership race.So, is anyone edging ahead - and who’s got the best offer for London?We’re joined from Birmingham by The Standard’s political editor Nicholas Cecil, who reports developments from the leadership race and recent revelations in the memoir of Tory grandee Lord Brady.In part two, The Standard’s transport editor Ross Lydall examines proposals for a £4.5 million cycleway running through the City of London, including Bank junction, to provide an alternative to the CS3 cycle superhighway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Conservative Party conference kicks off in Birmingham - throwing the race to become the next opposition leader wide open. And as the hopefuls promote themselves to the Tory membership, there’s an unusual array of candidate promotional ‘merch’ being offered.The Standard’s chief political correspondent, Rachael Burford, has the details.But is it actually helping convince members that they should back James Cleverly, Tom Tugendhat, Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick?The jury’s out, but there’s also been some very interesting polling on who the public’s thinks has what it takes to become a future prime minister.In part two, as the UK’s last remaining coal-fired power station shuts down, is it possible to ensure clean energy while cutting consumer bills - and how would this power grid of the future operate?We’re joined by climate scientist Simon Lewis, professor of global change science at UCL. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For your next trip, why not explore closer to home? Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks discuss the benefits of visiting nature-positive escapes such as Sussex's Knepp Estate, which was transformed from a working farm into a 3,500 pioneering rewilding project. Isabella Tree, who led the transformation, explains how giving the site back to nature saw it grow into an incredible natural landscape, and help re-establish animal species. Ned Burrell, director of the site's Wilding Kitchen restaurant explains how they're using food to promote the benefits of rewilding endeavours in the UK.Juliet also describes her trips to the 42 acres wellness retreat in Somerset, and the Reeds at South Lodge in the south east.Plus, find out what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer has met with the US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump for the first time.The meeting has sparked quite a bit of backlash though, considering what prominent Labour front benchers have said about the former president in the past. Our Deputy Political Editor, Jitendra Joshi, discusses everything we know about the meeting so far, and shares his insight into whether this could be the beginning of an unlikely friendship. In part two, our features & culture writer, Emma Loffhagen, explains the Sally Rooney divide amongst book lovers and critics. Plus, gives her review of Rooney’s latest novel Intermezzo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister has told the London Standard, he wants to make London the artificial intelligence capital of the world, and the opportunities to create wealth are endless.Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, discusses whether the UK can compete with the US when it comes to leading the way with this rapidly developing technology, and what spurred Sir Keir Starmer on to focus on AI now.In part two, cyber security expert Richard Bingley, shares his insight after a Wi-Fi cyber attack hits major UK stations - with ten of them in London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want something to brighten up the gloomy autumn days? We’ve got the definitive list of all the best entertainment to keep you busy.From exciting films, shows, TV, exhibitions and gigs, there’s so much coming up. We give you a sneak peek at the BFI London film festival, Gladiator II, Wicked, the ITV series Joan, Disney+’s Rivals, Janet Jackson at the O2, Dua Lipa at the Royal Albert Hall, through to The Devil Wears Prada musical.For a special treat The Standard’s Head of Culture, Nick Clark, has put together the ultimate autumn culture guide.With a summer of Taylor Swift can the UK’s music scene compete this season?Listen to find out… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK Prime Minister has delivered his first Labour party conference speech since coming to power. Sir Keir Starmer reassured the UK that despite difficult decisions ahead there is light at the end of the tunnel. He went on to promise to “build a new Britain” with a crackdown on benefit fraudsters, a promise to house all veterans, and by reducing the UK’s reliance on foreign workers.The Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, joins the podcast from Liverpool and unpacks everything covered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Labour party conference is fully underway and today’s big speech was from the Chancellor Rachel Reeves.The Standard’s Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, joins us from Liverpool to discuss the key points from the speech, and reveals the findings of our Ipsos poll which indicate the honeymoon might already be over for Sir Keir Starmer after less than three months in power.   In part two, we speak to Maurizio Roccato, criminal historian at the University of Turin in Italy and the curator of London’s controversial new exhibition about serial killers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Come with us as we travel to Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An and Cat Ba Island. Sustainable travel expert Juliet Kinsman and journalist Jon Weeks explore the best Vietnam has to offer; travelling via overnight train, exploring eco-resorts doing things differently, kayaking among breathtaking scenery, and tasting the best food you’ll ever eat. Find out how trips like this actually benefit the country you're visiting, in this case, a country that’s experienced centuries of cultural change, occupation and war, but still maintained its core identity.Plus, discover what else we're exploring as part of our Sustainable Travel campaign here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fears are growing over the potential of a full-scale war after Israel hit southern Lebanon with its most intense air strikes in nearly a year, raising tensions with Hezbollah.Our Defence Editor, Robert Fox, discusses what the latest developments mean for this conflict, where this leaves the Western allies, and reveals the wider impact of the Middle East crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Political Editor, Nicholas Cecil, discusses what happened when he spoke to Louise Haigh about her plans for the future of British transport, including how they are going to ‘modernise outdated work practices’ on strike-plagued railways and get trains running on time. Plus, more on the Sir Keir Starmer gifts row and Sue Gray's salary reveal.In part two, our Chief Political Correspondent, Rachael Burford, explains why Global Radio are taking Westminster council to court over Leicester Square buskers in a first of its kind case. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A major Evening Standard and ITV News investigation has found grieving families, pensioners with dementia, and even dead people have been wrongly prosecuted in Britain’s secretive fast-track courts,.The Standard’s courts correspondent Tristan Kirk discusses the latest evidence his ongoing investigation has uncovered, why this secretive process is still happening and the calls for reform.In part two, more on the proposed plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street as it’s emerged cyclists will be banned from riding through the West End's proposed traffic-free section - with Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is London’s Oxford Street, the UK’s most famous shopping district, about to become pedestrianised? Ross Lydall, The Standard’s City Hall Editor and Transport Editor, walks us through the proposed plans and explains why Sadiq Khan is facing a battle against Westminster Council.Plus, we close London Fashion Week with Junior Fashion Editor, Joe Bromley, who reveals all the highlights and the trends to follow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Keir Starmer flew to Italy to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to discuss the country’s asylum processing scheme. We speak with our Political Editor Nicholas Cecil to find out what it could mean for the UK.And in part two it’s Emmys 2024. We’re joined by arts and culture writer and commissioning editor Vicky Jessop to discuss the highlights, such as a three award win for Baby Reindeer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this special episode we're joined by weight-loss specialist Shahroo Izadi to talk about her upcoming masterclass for The Standard called 'how to lose weight for good'. In this episode host Nicola Barron and Shahroo discuss:Why so many of us find it hard to stick to dietsMaintaining a heathy weight and enjoying foodThe kindness methodPlus much more!For all listeners we’re running a special 15% discount across all our classes this month with the code BACKTOSCHOOL <link>Tap the links to hear our previous episodes on 'how to succeed as an introvert' and 'how to stay focused and get things done'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transport for London has admitted a cyber attack hitting its IT systems is much worse than initially thought.Ross Lydall has the latest on the investigation, the risk to passenger data - plus, what's happening with Central Line delays linked to ongoing rolling stock refurbishment.In part two, a new wave of fixed mortgage rate cuts is on the way for lucky borrowers on Friday 13 as home loan costs continue to fall.Evening Standard business editor Jonathan Prynn examines data showing major high street lenders TSB, Nationwide and HSBC will cut rates across their range of fixed rate products in the latest flare up in the mortgage price war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The father of Stephen Lawrence has spoken of his son’s legacy and the family’s enduring heartbreak ahead of what would have been the teenager’s 50th birthday.Stephen, a black 18-year-old aspiring architect, was stabbed to death in a racist attack by a group of young white men in April 1993, in Eltham, south London.Evening Standard crime correspondent Anthony France has interviewed Dr Neville Lawrence, who told our journalist the world was robbed of a “special” young man “who loved people for who they are” as he told of son’s hope to design the capital’s future skyscrapers.In part two, the world’s biggest style brands showcase their collections alongside the capital’s independent designers at the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week.Evening Standard Joe Bromley discusses spring/summer 2025 collections appearing at venues around London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kamala Harris pummelled Donald Trump at their first - and potentially only - White House election debate, forcing the former president onto the defensive and subsequently winning the prized endorsement of Taylor Swift.Evening Standard deputy political editor Jitendra Joshi reports Democratic vice president Harris exploited her experience as a courtroom prosecutor to convey the Republican as unfit for office - while Trump pushed back against claims that he endangers the Constitution.In part two, Evening Standard chief theatre critic Nick Curtis is joined by Ruth Wilson to discuss ‘A Very Royal Scandal’ - which comes to Amazon Prime on 19 September.The award-winning actress plays former BBC Newsnight anchor Emily Maitlis in a new dramatisation of Prince Andrew’s nightmare interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender and late financier Jeffrey Epstein.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Around 1,700 prisoners were being freed on Tuesday in the first wave of early release to ease the overcrowding crisis in jails despite new warnings that some are certain to reoffend.Evening Standard home affairs editor Martin Bentham reports each of the inmates being released will have served only 40 per cent of the prison term they were handed by the courts in an emergency measure ordered by the Government to stop jails running out of space for new suspects and convicts.In part two, the Princess of Wales has been praised by charities for giving “hope to many others” with a heartfelt video explaining progress in her cancer treatment.Evening Standard reporter Robert Dex discusses Kate’s use of the professionally-shot short film also featuring her husband and children, and its public relations context, to announce completion of her course of chemotherapy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London MPs have joined a Commons movement challenging the axing winter fuel payments for millions of pensioners.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil has Monday morning's details on an early day motion calling for the Starmer government’s hugely controversial cuts to be postponed.In part two, a look at how construction of the huge new HS2 station at Old Oak Common will see years of Christmas closures and diversions for passengers using at Paddington.Transport editor Ross Lydall discusses the logistics of moving services temporarily to Euston and its impact on timetables. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nicola Barron (Masterclasses) is joined by Mark Channon, productivity coach and World Memory Grand Master no less, to explore ways in which we can stay focused and get things done. Plus, boost your power of recall with Mark’s memory technique.For all listeners we’re running a special 15% discount across all our classes this month, when you enter the promo code BACKTOSCHOOL.To hear our previous episode on how to thrive as an introvert, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK government is reportedly considering sending offenders to serve sentences in Estonian prisons to ease overcrowding in Britain’s jails. Although it’s not officially been confirmed, cabinet minister Angela Eagle says ‘anything’ is being considered to ease the prisons crisis.Our Courts Correspondent, Tristan Kirk, reveals what we know so far about this potential option, and discusses the urgent issues facing our country’s prisons.In part two, film critic Jo-Ann Titmarsh joins us from the Venice International Film Festival to give her verdict on Joker: Folie à deux, all the very long standing ovations, and the movies that should be on your list to go see. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bereaved families of victims who died in the Grenfell Tower fire say those complicit in the 2017 disaster must face justice - but face waiting at least a further two years for any charges to be brought.It came as PM Sir Keir Starmer issued an apology from the British state to families and survivors following the publication of a damning public inquiry report - amid growing calls to overhaul fire safety and building cladding laws.Evening Standard political editor Nicholas Cecil discusses reaction to the public inquiry’s scathing report, next steps for the criminal investigation and the outlook for new building safety legislation.In part two, Evening Standard transport editor Ross Lydall has details of the expansion of contactless train payments to include dozens of commuter towns for the first time, and how it could see fewer passengers caught out with fines for buying the wrong ticket. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has delivered a damning final report into the disaster that claimed 72 lives.It found the west London tower was turned into a death trap in June 2017 by “dishonest” construction firms, architects and negligent politicians who ignored fire safety for decades.Bereaved families and survivors vowed to continue their fight for justice, with Wednesday's report paving the way for criminal prosecutions over one of the worst disasters in modern British history.A seven-year public inquiry, chaired by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, exposed how refurbishment prior to the devastating fire left the North Kensington block coated in cheap, highly flammable cladding and foam insulation - while warnings of impending disaster from Grenfell residents were ignored.We’re joined from the inquiry in Paddington by Evening Standard courts correspondent Tristan Kirk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK Defence Secretary has told his Israeli counterpart that the British government is ‘following the law’ with its decision to suspend around 30 arms export licences over the Gaza conflict.The Government says that humanitarian concerns and the treatment of detainees were among the reasons why they suspended some arms sales to Israel, amid concerns a “clear risk” exists that they could be used to breach international humanitarian law.Nicholas Cecil, the Standard’s Political Editor, explains the decision and potential repercussions. In part two, our features journalist, Maddy Mussen discusses the rumours that there could be a potential plot to reintroduce Prince Harry back into the royal family… and why she’s all for the idea.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been announced that the one and two-word Ofsted ratings for schools will be scrapped with immediate effect. The Government said the change, which follows the suicide of head teacher Ruth Perry in 2023, was needed to reduce the high stakes for schools and give parents a better picture.Darren Northcott, National Official for Education at NASUWT, gives his reaction and discusses whether the changes go far enough. In part two, the Standard’s culture writer, Vicky Jessop, joins us to discuss why Oasis fans across the country have been left feeling outraged over dynamic ticket pricing.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're treating you to an episode from London Love Stories. What’s that they say about buses and two coming at once? Perhaps the same can be said of bus-related love stories, too. Host Katie Strick meets Rory and Charlotte, another couple who have a lot to thank the number 17 bus route for... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 81st annual Venice International Film Festival is officially underway. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, the long-awaited sequel to Tim Burton’s 1988 classic comedy horror, opened up the festival this week but there’s still plenty more to come from the event which runs until 7th September.Jo-Ann Titmarsh, freelance film critic for the Evening Standard, joins us from Venice to discuss all the hotly anticipated premieres, including; Joker: Folie à Deux with Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, Maria starring Angelina Jolie, and Luca Guadagnino’s Queer with Daniel Craig.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this preview of Brave New World….Is there such a thing as perfect sleep? Leading expert in circadian neuroscience from Oxford University, Professor Russell Foster, joins host Evgeny Lebedev, to explain the science behind nighttime slumber and why it's crucial to living our best lives awake. The pair discuss everything from sleep hygiene, napping, our circadian rhythm and body clocks, and the impact of technology before bed.Listen to the full conversation on the Brave New World podcast here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Team GB's 220 athletes have arrived in Paris ready for the Paralympic Games. Our senior editor and feature writer Katie Strick discusses what she learned from interviews with some of this year’s athletes, including Zak Skinner and Stef Reid, such as the need for resilience, humour and a change in mentality to succeed in the games.Find Katie's full article here, and more on the Paralympic games here.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a 15-year hiatus the Gallagher brothers are finally getting the band back together. Wembley stadium is set to host four shows as part of the UK and Ireland tour in 2025. The Standard’s Celebrity Correspondent Lisa McLoughlin and Executive News Editor Mark Wilkinson discuss the huge announcement, what it means for London, and what the tour could entail.Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're treating you to an episode from London Love Stories. Host Katie Strick meets Alice and Elliot, the first of two couples who fell in love after meeting on the same bus route from King’s Cross. Make sure to come back next Saturday for part two...  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The August bank holiday weekend brings a feast of music to west London as Notting Hill Carnival marks its 56th year.The celebration of Caribbean culture runs over three days, with musical styles from calypso to dancehall for over two million expected revellers.Mark Blunden is joined by sound system pioneer and Notting Hill Carnival director Linett Kamala, who in 1985 at 15 years old was one of the first female DJs to perform at the event.Linett spoke to The Standard podcast from Powis Square, where she was putting the finishing touches to her dubstep-focussed Trojan 7 x Lin Kam Art sound system collaboration.In part 2, Rachelle Abbott speaks with Joshua Thomson, artistic director of Australian performance art troupe Legs On The Wall.His production Thaw will see members of the daredevil dance troupe suspended above Docklands from a crane atop a 2.5-ton melting block of ice in a bid to urge action on climate change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London students continued to have Britain’s best GCSE results as hundreds of thousands of teenagers nationwide discovered their academic fate.Pupils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland received their results in the first year where grade marking was restored to pre-pandemic 2019 levels in all three nations.Evening Standard chief political correspondent Rachael Burford discusses GCSE results day, student stories around the capital and government plans to address attainment gaps. In part two, it appears Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are headed for divorce after a second go at a relationship that first sparked over two decades ago.JLo filed for divorce at an LA court on Tuesday, but what happens next and who gets what - it all hinges on if a prenuptial agreement was signed.We’re joined by Evening Standard courts correspondent Tristan Kirk, who examines the case and next steps for the Hollywood stars’ legal teams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A report reveals the salaries Londoners need to earn so they can afford a privately rented home in the capital.Average earnings required are growing ever higher, with more than £76,000 a year now needed, according to research by the G15 group, which represents London’s largest not-for-profit housing associations.Evening Standard chief political correspondent Rachael Burford examines the report’s findings.Plus, in part two, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta plans to build the most physically-imposing Gunners team since Arsène Wenger’s ‘Invincibles’.Evening Standard football writer Simon Collings discusses Arteta’s strategy to boost the club’s complement of tall players for the new Premier League season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.