The Leader | Evening Standard daily

As the Mayor of London urges the government to consider decriminalising possession of small amounts of cannabis, Steve Rolles, a senior policy analyst for Transform Drugs Policy Foundation, unpacks the findings of the London Drugs Commission.And in part two, The Standard's culture writer Claudia Cockerell questions the power and popularity of the slogan t-shirt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is positioning his party against Labour, with policies that will allegedly be funded by axing net zero projects, saving up to £225 billion. The London Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford explains more.And in part two, news reporter Megan Howe tells us why one London borough is seeking independence to rejoin Essex. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Ofgem announces the latest energy price cap, we're joined by Emily Seymour, from consumer champion Which? to unpack today's facts and figures.And in part two, The London Standard's lifestyle and culture writer India Block reveals the winning songwriters of the Ivor Novello awards - and the state of the music industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the day that a package of fundamental reforms to the justice system is announced, The London Standard's Courts Correspondent Tristan Kirk reports on the action.And in part two, we explore why Clarkson's Farm has proved to be Prime Video's most successful original series of all time, with Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer Vicky Jessop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's been a bigger-than-expected inflation jump for households across Britain - and The London Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford unpacks the news, alongside Keir Starmer's surprise policy u-turn.And in part two, Tamara Davidson reports on the release of Final Destination Bloodlines, which is the cult franchise's sixth film after 25 years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keir Starmer claims Britain is back on the world stage after securing a new deal between Britain and the EU - but opposition leaders say he has surrendered on fishing rights. Chief political correspondent Rachael Burford has the latest.And in part two, The London Standard's business editor Jonathan Pyrnn reveals details of the Barbican Centre's ambitious renovation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Speaking from London's Old Bailey, we're joined by The London Standard's courts correspondent, Tristan Kirk, with the latest on the major hack of the UK's justice system by cyber criminals.And in part two, we learn about the new Guinness micro brewery which will be coming to London's Covent Garden. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As excitement builds around the Eurovision Song Contest, The London Standard's Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer Vicky Jessop highlights the standout acts to watch — amid ongoing protests and controversy surrounding Israel's participation.And in part two, as part of this week's hidden London, world war two historian, Dr Helen Fry, is at Latimer House, where intelligence services extracted secrets from the Nazis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reporter Megan Howe joins us from the High Court to explain the row over events such as Mighty Hoopla and Field Day, which are held in Brockwell Park - and how the verdict will impact London's festival scene.Plus, Claudia Cockerell shares the sour truth about London's sugar babies, who are dating older, wealthy men to fund their lives in a cost of living crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government has slashed Sir Sadiq Khan's affordable housing targets after the number of affordable homes being started in London last year was revealed to be the second lowest on record.Local democracy reporter Noah Vickers joins us to unpack the latest data from City Hall.And in part two, Chief Theatre Critic Nick Curtis tells us about the hottest theatre tickets in town this summer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chief political correspondent Rachael Burford joins us to discuss the backlash against Prime Minister Keir Starmer's migration reforms, with his immigration speech likened by MPs to the rhetoric of Enoch Powell.And in part two, Courts Correspondent Tristan Kirk brings us the latest from P Diddy's trial in New York, where the music mogul is accused of sex trafficking, racketeering and prostitution charges Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chief political correspondent Rachael Burford joins us to discuss the secret underground world propping up some of the capital's most-hyped restaurants, fuelled by illegal immigration.And in part two, Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer Vicky Jessop shares all the news, shocks and surprises from Sunday's BAFTA TV Awards ceremony. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Between 2023 and 2024, police recorded a record high of 37,959 blackmail offences in England and Wales but what's behind the increase in this type of crime? Alexandra McCready is Head of Reputation and Privacy for law firm, Vardags, and joins us to reveal what really goes on behind closed doors when it comes to dealing with blackmail and sextortion. Plus, how and why the recent papal election process fuelled a new online obsession amongst Gen-Z. The London Standard's Features writer and columnist, Maddy Mussen is here with the lowdown on PopeCrave, fan-cams and the fan fiction inspired by Conclave. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After several days of commemoration events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, culminating in a memorial service today at Westminster Abbey, we're joined by Laura Clouting, Senior Curator at the Imperial War Museum, to explore why the historic event still holds importance in today's society and what we can learn from those who endured the Second World War. Plus, as Sir David Attenborough celebrates his 99th birthday, he releases a new film with possibly one of his most important messages to date. The London Standard's Culture writer, Vicky Jessop, joins us to tell us what we can expect from ‘Ocean'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tensions are rising between two nuclear powers after India launched missile strikes into Pakistan-controlled territory. Pakistan's calling it an “act of war”. The London Standard's reporter Jacob Phillips joins us to explain what's happened, why now, and what it means for the UK and wider world.Plus, we hear from James Ashton, co-founder of Oscar's Book Prize. He tells us about this year's winning picture book “Just The Two of Us” by Polly Noakes - and the moving legacy behind the award. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Home Office has announced plans to crackdown on VISA applications to the UK.Under the proposed crackdown, applications from people who fit the profile of someone who may claim asylum and who are from countries with high rates of asylum claims will be rejected.The London Standard's Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford discusses the ins and outs of the plans, and considers whether the crackdown will ultimately benefit the UK.Plus, Entertainment Editor Lisa Mcloughlin discusses the outfits, celeb goss and drama from the 2025 Met Gala, including the celebs whose designs were more 'Meh Gala'. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government has been urged to take action after new research has found that more than half of London's short-term holiday let properties are rented unlawfully. The London Standard's Local Democracy Reporter, Noah Vickers, is here to explain the rules around these sort of property rentals and examine why they are causing issues.Plus, as part of The Standard's Hidden London series, archaeologist, author and Director of Projects at the World Monuments Fund, John Darlington joins us to share the story of Strawberry Hill House including how it inspired the genre of gothic fiction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The United States and Ukraine have announced an economic deal which will tie the two countries together in a joint reinvestment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction.But what are the finer points of the deal and how could it impact any peace plan with Russia?The London Standard's Rachael Burford is here with all the latest.Plus, we'll find out about a major new food hall which is set to open in the shadows of one of the most iconic buildings in town.The London Standard's restaurant critic and Going Out Editor, David Ellis, shares his opinions on the offering. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New research that reveals people hit by SUVs are 44 percent likely to die than if they were struck by a conventional car, while children are 82 per cent more likely to suffer fatal injuries. But SUVs are some of London's most popular vehicles. The London Standard's transport editor Ross Lydall joins the podcast. (edited) In part two, Hiroshige: artist of the open road, at the British Museum. The exhibition has been given four stars from The London Standard. To find out more we join the museum's project curator for Japanese collections in the Department of Asia, Alfred Haft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With firefighters in London battling a huge blaze at an electrical substation, just over a month since a similar incident brought Heathrow Airport to a standstill, how worried should we be about the frequency of these substation fires? And, in light of the recent events in Spain and Portugal, are there greater concerns about the stability of the UK's power network? John Loughhead, Professor of Clean Energy at the University of Birmingham and Fellow and Former President at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, is here to offer an insight to the situation both here and abroad. Plus, in part two, could you help the Zoological Society London uncover mystery film footage in time for their 200th anniversary celebrations in 2026? ZSL's Bicentenary Project Manager, Tina Campanella joins us to explain how to get involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NHS is set to overhaul how it supports young people with gender dysphoria, with new proposals to screen for autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.Leaked plans suggest a move away from a purely medical model towards a more holistic approach to care. The London Standard's Daniel Keane explains what's behind the changes, how they link to the Cass Review, and the reaction from campaign groups.Plus, we hear from The London Standard's Anthony France about the Critical Mass London protest that brought traffic at the Silvertown Tunnel to a standstill. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cyclists who kill pedestrians by dangerous cycling could now face life imprisonment in England and Wales under proposed changes to the law which are currently going through Parliament. The London Standard's Melanie McDonagh, who has herself been knocked down by a cyclist in the city, is here to tell us how the law has been amended and whether she thinks there's still more to be done when it comes to road safety for both pedestrians and cyclists. And in part two, as the London Marathon turns 45 this weekend, it hopes to celebrate by breaking a new world record. The London Standard's sport writer, Malik Ouzia, is here to tell us how it could happen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hackney Council has agreed plans to close four schools in the borough at the end of the school year, and more boroughs look to be following suit including neighbouring Islington where parents are anxiously awaiting an update on the potential closure of a further two primary schools in the area. We join the London Standard's Jacob Phillips who has been reporting on the story plus we hear from Rosie Turvey, a London parent who has concerns about her own children's school. And in part two, do you prefer Forest, Lime or Boris? With around 50,000 hire bikes available across the capital, The London Standard City Hall and Transport Editor, and keen cyclist, Ross Lydall, has been out testing the options and joins us with his review. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After signs of recovery last week, new data is painting a far gloomier picture for the global economy. The London Standard's business editor Jonathan Prynn explains how Donald Trump's tariffs are sparking fears of a worldwide recession and what it all means for the UK.Plus, The London Standard's features writer and columnist Maddy Mussen joins us to discuss the latest Beckham family drama being played out by what is (and isn't) being posted on social media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the announcement that the funeral of Pope Francis will take place at the Vatican this Saturday, the London Standard's Melanie McDonagh joins us to explain some of the customs and traditions which are taking place during this time and explore who could be named as the next pope.And in part two, as Beyoncé's mum, Tina Knowles, releases her memoir, ‘Matriarch', what will we learn about the roots of one of music's most successful artists? The Standard's Culture and Lifestyle writer, India Block, is here to give us the lowdown. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Although Sharia law councils, often referred to as courts, have no legal jurisdiction within the UK, many people of Muslim faith turn to them for guidance on aspects of their everyday lives.With their number in the capital on the rise, award winning journalist, David James Smith, joins us for an in-depth conversation about his special report for The Standard into how these councils operate and whether they best serve those who turn to them for help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Astronomers believe they have discovered the strongest evidence yet that life may exist on a planet outside our solar system.A group of scientists, led by the University of Cambridge, have published the results of their study in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.One of the co-authors is Dr Subhajit Sarkar, a lecturer and astrophysicist at Cardiff University, and he joins us to explain more about the planet K2-18b, why the team were looking specifically at that part of space and why he thinks it's only a matter of time before we can confirm alien life.Plus, with the long Easter weekend upon us, The Standard's Food and Drink writer, Josh Barrie, is on hand with ideas of what to do and where to go in the capital to keep the family entertained. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

UK inflation has dropped to 2.6% - the lowest since December. The fall, driven by cheaper fuel and hotel rates, is being hailed as a sign of economic stability. But is this just a blip or a sign that we're past the cost of living crisis? The Standard's Business Editor, Jonathan Prynn, explains what it means for wages, interest rates, and the wider economy.Plus, Arsenal face Real Madrid in tonight's Champions League quarter final tie later. The Standard's football writer Simon Collings joins us from Spain with team updates, tactical insight, and what's at stake as the Gunners chase a semi-final place for the first time since 2009.Remember you can follow all the action live via our live blog at standard.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Police have been called in to investigate the circumstances surrounding the felling of an ancient oak tree in North London. Reports were made to Enfield Council on the 3rd April that the tree, in Whitewebbs Park, had been damaged, sparking local outrage and immediate concerns by the council. Local business owner and campaigner for woodland protection, Lawrence Thor Stephen, from Thors Trees, joins us to explain the ecological significance of the tree, the impact its felling will have on local wildlife, and the community's response to the incident. Plus, the American TV network, HBO, has confirmed the names of the actors taking on the iconic roles of Dumbledore, Hagrid and Snape in their forthcoming TV adaptation of the Harry Potter books. The Standard's Culture writer, Vicky Jessop, is on hand with the latest updates including speculation on who could be cast as He Who Must Not Be Named. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Visitor numbers to the UK's leading art institutions have fallen sharply since the pandemic - with the Tate galleries alone seeing a drop of more than two million visitors in the last five years.In this episode, we hear from Rosie Kay, co-founder of the campaign group Freedom in the Arts, about her opinion piece for The London Standard. She shares her concerns that ideological messaging is eclipsing artistic and historical exploration, and questions whether a heavy-handed approach to inclusion is putting off audiences.Plus, pop star Katy Perry has made history by joining Blue Origin's first all-female crewed space flight. The Standard's Jacob Phillips was live blogging the launch - we find out who else went, what they took with them, and whether Katy really sang in space. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

High prices, rising utility bills, rogue landlords and poor living conditions are all contributing to a growing crisis in London's rental market and it is young people who are bearing the brunt. With 2.7 million people renting in the city, paying on average around 40% of their income on rent alone, does this make London the worse place to be renting? Jacob Phillips joins us to talk about the challenges faced by many people when it comes to accommodations choices and what impact the Government's Renters Rights Bill might have on the situation.Plus one of the world's oldest and most famous amateur sporting rivalries takes place this weekend, as Oxford and Cambridge Universities go head-to-head in the annual Boat Race, but will the water quality of the River Thames pose a serious risk to the rowers taking part? The Standard's Megan Howe is here with the latest on what advice is being given to the teams and all the details of when and where you can watch the race. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a raging blaze that tore through a block of east London flats late last night. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but witness accounts suggest the fire was started by a faulty e-bike battery. It's not a unique story - a Standard investigation found fires sparked by “dangerous” e-bikes and e-scooters in London have doubled in just three years. But why do these fires start, and can dodgy e-bikes be stopped? We're joined by Local Democracy Reporter Noah Vickers. In part two, The London Standard's Culture and Lifestyle writer India Block takes us through the new series of everyone's favourite dystopian drama, Black Mirror. Dropping on Netflix today, featuring an all star cast, Series 7 continues its comment on the rapid pace of change in politics and technology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than 11,000 millionaires have left London in the last 12 months. It's the biggest exodus of the super-wealthy from any city in the world, second only to Moscow.In this episode, The Standard's news reporter Bill Bowkett joins us to discuss what's driving the trend and what it means for London's economic future.Plus, cuts to the Metropolitan Police mean the end of officers in schools. The Standard's crime correspondent Anthony France explains the impact the loss of Safer Schools Officers could have on London's young people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A baby girl has made history as the first child in the UK to be born from a womb transplant. Amy Isabel Davidson was delivered at the end of February after her mum, Grace, received the womb from her older sister, Amy, in 2023. The pioneering transplant procedure follows decades of work by surgeons Professor Richard Smith and Isabel Quiroga.Daniel Keane, Health Correspondent for the Standard joins us to offer an insight into this medical breakthrough and who might be able to benefit from this procedure in the future.Plus, the Duke of Sussex arrived at the Royal Courts of Justice in London this morning, to appeal the previous decision to downgrade his security arrangements in the UK. The Standard's Court Correspondent, Tristan Kirk, is on hand to explain Prince Harry's case and how it might affect his future visits with his family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The FTSE 100 plunged to its lowest level in a year as markets reacted to sweeping new US tariffs, including a 25% charge on imported vehicles. The London Standard's Business Editor Jonathan Prynn breaks down what's driving the market turmoil, what it could mean for wages, pensions and jobs, and whether the UK's emergency reforms will be enough to cushion the blow.We also hear from Transport and City Hall Editor Ross Lydall on the opening of London's brand new £2.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel. He shares what he saw as the first cars made the crossing, and whether the new tunnel is really easing pressure on Blackwall. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Government proposals could see Sir Sadiq Khan having the final say on whether pubs and clubs can stay open late into the night. But will this help boost London's night time economy or cause conflict between local councils and the London mayor? The Standard's Transport and City Hall Editor, Ross Lydall, is here to explain the situation.Plus, as we edge closer to the much-anticipated season finale of one of the most popular TV series in recent years, The Standard'sculture writer, Vicky Jessop, shares her thoughts on what to expect from The White Lotus storylines and the future of the show.**Warning – this episode contains spoilers** Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

US President Donald Trump unveiled a series of new tariffs today, potentially escalating a global trade war and reversing trade arrangements that have been in place for nearly eight decades. A 10% tariff has been placed on the UK, as a post-Brexit Britain escaped the far harsher tariffs levied on the EU. The London Standard's Business Editor Jonathan Prynn talks through the responses and repercussions. In part two, which London neighbourhoods have gentrified the most rapidly? Local Democracy reporter Noah Vickers analyses new research about the capital's affordability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Metropolitan Police is facing a £260million funding shortfall, prompting sweeping cuts across the force. 1,700 jobs are at risk, including officers, PCSOs and support staff. London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has pledged to protect frontline response units and increase funding from City Hall, but public trust and service levels could be under pressure.The London Standard's crime editor Anthony France joins us to explain how the Met's finances reached this crisis point, which units are most vulnerable, and what it all means for policing in London.Plus, Hollywood star Val Kilmer has died aged 65. From Top Gun's Iceman to Batman and Heat, we reflect on his iconic screen moments and lasting legacy with The London Standard's celebrity correspondent Lisa McLoughlin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A three day hearing has commenced at London's High Court as pupils, their parents and a collection of independent and faith schools appeal against Labour's policy to impose VAT on school fees.In this episode, Tristan Kirk, the Court Correspondent for The Standard outlines who is bringing the challenge, explains why the hearing has been fast-tracked, and sets out the potential implications of a successful verdict.Plus, Sony Pictures has finally announced the cast for its biopic on The Beatles and the Standard's Head of Culture, Martin Robinson, is here to give his views on the ambitious project and how the casting choices might be key to attracting new generations to the story of one of the biggest influences in British music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has opened a major summit on illegal migration, bringing together officials from over 40 countries at Lancaster House in London.In this episode we hear from The Standard's Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford about Labour's strategy to crack down on people smuggling and the role of social media in tackling online exploitation.Plus, as London prepares to open the £2.2 billion Silvertown Tunnel, we hear from Transport for London's David Rowe and The Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall on what the new river crossing means for commuters, congestion, and tolls. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Chancellor has presented her first highly-anticipated Spring Statement to parliament. More extensive changes were made than expected, after Rachel Reeves' plans were blown off course by lower growth and higher government borrowing costs. Helena Wadia speaks to the London Standard's Chief Political Correspondent, Rachael Burford, about defence spending, welfare cuts, and Sabrina Carpenter tickets.In part two, H&M have announced they are creating AI model ‘twins' - digital replicas of models to use for marketing campaigns. This comes despite acknowledging they don't know the full impact of their approach. We sit down with London model, artist and writer Julia Campbell-Gillies to discuss the potential consequences on the wider fashion photography industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

News broke late on Tuesday night that Prince Harry has stepped down from his role as co-founding patron of Sentebale, the charity he set up in memory of his mother. To find out more, we're joined by The London Standard's culture and lifestyle writer India Block.In part two, we join Emma Flynn who is currently starring as Cher Horowitz in the new West End musical, Clueless. We ask her what it's like to play such an iconic role, whether she's met Alicia Silverstone, what Cher would be like in 2025's society, plus much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The row over the Chancellor Rachel Reeves receiving tickets to a Sabrina Carpenter concert at London's o2 Arena has grown on Tuesday, with Greenwich and Woolwich MP Matthew Pennycook saying that he had never taken a free ticket for the flagship music venue in east London. Speaking to LBC Matthew said he personally did not believe it was “appropriate” to accept them.But what is the ministerial code, and have any rules been broken? We're joined by The London Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford.In part two we head over to The Museum of Brands for this week's London's Hidden Gems and speak to Museum Director Paul Botje and Museum Curator Alice Kain.The full Hidden Gems video was produced by The London Standard's deputy head of video, Albert Evans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we approach this week's Spring Statement we join The London Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford, who explains the government's plans to cut civil service running costs.Chancellor Rachel Reeves is now facing a war with unions amid claims as many as 50,000 people would lose their jobs.In part two we speak to historian Dr Leanne Langley as March 21st marked 200 years since Beethoven's Ninth Symphony first premiered in the UK.The first performance took place at a popular music venue on London's Regent Street called the Argyll Rooms.We chat about the history behind Beethoven's Ninth Symphony premiere, the composer's ties to the London Philharmonic Society, plus the significance of the Argyll Rooms at that time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Restaurant critic David Ellis and food and drink writer Josh Barrie are back. This week they discuss why the upcoming spring statement is going to wreak havoc on London's nightlife industry. This concern comes at the same time as Westminster City Council's recent proposal of “quiet nights” for pubs, clubs and bars to help curb resident complaints. Josh walks us through his recent article titled The suffocation of Soho: how London's creative rogue is being sanitised.Plus, how much bottomless lasagne can one man eat? David reviews his recent trip down to Senza Fondo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 76-minute-long season two finale of Severance is almost here, to close what's been another highly acclaimed series. The London Standard's culture & lifestyle writer India Block speaks to star of the show, Dichen Lachman, about the chilling finale, technology fears, the writer's strike, and what Ben Stiller is like as a director. To read the full interview click here.In part two, Helena Wadia sits down with Met Office Presenter and Meteorologist Clare Nasir, to discuss London's soaring temperatures on the first day of spring. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following on from our recent feature about the Netflix show, Adolescence, The London Standard's columnist and Features Writer, Maddy Mussen joins us to take a deeper look into the language which is being used within the online culture of incels, explaining the word itself and concepts such as the manosphere, sigmas and looksmaxxing.In part two, The London Standard's Transport and City Hall Editor, Ross Lydall, is here to set out the findings of a recent report which reveals that London's iconic black cabs could be facing an uncertain future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As part of this week's The London Question, we're joined by The London Standard's Transport and City Hall editor, Ross Lydall, who's been writing about the safety of our capital's buses. Why have the numbers in serious injury or fatality not improved, and what can be done to make journeys safer?Plus in part two: a new Netflix series has been creating headlines, earning praise for not only its hard-hitting storyline but also its captivating filming technique.Told across four-parts, each filmed in a single continuous take, Adolescence tells the story of a teenage boy accused of the murder of a classmate and the fall out for his family and all those involved in the investigation. The London Standard's TV editor, Vicky Jessop, is on hand to tell us more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sweeping changes to the welfare system are putting Prime Minister Keir Starmer under pressure. In this episode we hear from The London Standard's Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford on what cuts to the Personal Independence Payment and other benefits could mean for some of the most vulnerable in society.We also hear from The Standard's food and drink writer Josh Barrie about the hidden gem in Holborn where retro arcade games are going from seaside sideshow to centre stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump's Trade war is escalating - tariffs on steel and aluminium are in place and key trade partners are hitting back.We hear from The London Standard's Business Editor, Jonathan Prynn, about the impact of this uncertainty on the markets and how it's being felt by the tech tycoons.Also in this episode we hear from Homes and Property Editor Prudence Ivey on the secret lives of London's mega mansions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, Nicola Barron from Masterclasses for The London Standard is joined by journalist and author Erica Buist. Erica has written for The Guardian, The Sunday Times, and Newsweek, covering everything from death festivals around the world to the internet's strangest subcultures.With AI reshaping the media landscape and the future of journalism under scrutiny, Erica makes the case for why quality reporting matters more than ever. She shares insights on pitching, storytelling, and standing out in a rapidly changing industry.Erica will also be leading a journalism masterclass on Monday 28 April, covering everything from getting published to finding original stories—with the chance for one-to-one feedback on your work.For more from Erica Buist:Visit standard.co.uk/masterclasses to book her session.Buy her book: This Party's Dead is available now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.