The Leader | Evening Standard daily

With this year's Wimbledon Championships starting on Monday, The Standard's live sports writer Matt Verri tells us about meeting Britain's no.1 tennis star Jack Draper - currently ranked fourth in the world - and whether he has it in him to win a grand slam tournament. Then, as part of The Standard's Hidden London series, John Darlington, Director of Projects for the World Monuments Fund, explains why he likens Sevendroog Castle in South London to India's Taj Mahal Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katja Faber transforms from mother to defender as she gears up for the biggest legal fight of her lifetime – the appeal and ensuing retrial. We examine a Swiss legal loophole that Bennet's team exploits in an attempt to free him. And just when she least expects it, Katja receives a letter from Bennet himself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing a growing backlash to his proposed welfare reform bill, with 120 Labour MPs saying they will back an amendment that threatens the cuts. The Standard's Chief Political Correspondent Rachael Burford has the latest. And in part two, The Standard's Commissioning Editor and Culture Writer, Vicky Jessop, joins us as the Glastonbury Festival gates open to share her top tips and the best acts to see at the music extravaganza. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK may be the start-up capital of Europe, but not when it comes to women. Currently, just 19.1% of active UK companies are female-led.Sharmadean Reid, an award-winning entrepreneur, founder of Stack World, and AXA Startup Angel judge, joins us to discuss the obstacles faced by female entrepreneurs in the UK.'Hustling and entrepreneurship come naturally to women'Sharmadean told us women don't have issues starting businesses; they have issues growing them, due to a lack of funding.Sharmadean shares insights on the importance of mentorship and advice for those starting and scaling businesses.Plus, she also discusses the current economic climate and how it's leaving business owners feeling "hopeless".For more information and to enter this year's AXA Startup Angel competition, visit standard.co.uk/axastartupangel.Entries close July 6th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The campaign group Palestine Action has been proscribed under anti-terror laws. Before the announcement was confirmed, Ruth Ehrlich, Head of Policy and Campaigns at the human rights organisations Liberty, explained what it could all mean. And in part two, The Standard's culture writer India Block tells us about Floweroverlove, the London-based singer-songwriter who is opening for Olivia Rodrigo at the British Summer Time Festival in Hyde Park. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The future of Notting Hill Carnival is in doubt after a review identified ‘critical public safety concerns' due to vast crowds. The Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall has the latest.And in part two, to celebrate London's Pride month, Jack Guinness talks about his book ‘The Queer Bible', his love for London and the importance of sharing LGBTQ+ stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katja Faber steps into the courtroom to face her son's killer. Bennet's defence claims he suffered a drug-induced psychotic break and is therefore not responsible for his actions. Katja uncovers something she never could have predicted—Alex's homicide isn't the only crime Bennet is standing trial for. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, US President Donald Trump is considering whether to join Israel's strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, as the conflict continues for a sixth day - but what does this mean for the UK? The Standard's news reporter Bill Bowkett has the latest.And in part two, The Standard's art critic Melanie McDonagh gives her verdict on The Royal Academy of Art's summer exhibition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

London mayor Sadiq Khan will press ahead with the part-pedestrianisation of Oxford Street to the cost of £150 million. The Standard's City Hall and Transport Editor Ross Lydall has the latest. And in part two, The Standard's celebrity correspondent Tina Campbell joins us to explain why fans are divided over the musical Evita which is currently showing at London's Palladium theatre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week London is tipped to be hotter than Barcelona and the Algarve, with temperatures reaching 31 degrees, and climate scientist Dr Chloe Brimicombe from the Royal Meteorological Society joins us to discuss.And in part two, The Standard's commissioning editor and culture writer, Vicky Jessop, explains how TikTok influencer Addison Rae became the new cool girl of music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Israel attacks Iran's nuclear facilities, The Standard's Defence Editor Robert Fox joins us to explain the latest developments in the Middle East. And in part two, criminal investigative psychologist Professor Donna Youngs reveals why so many of us are drawn to true crime stories, as digital app Readly launches a true crime retro series with The Standard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On December 30, 2014, Katja Faber wakes from a horrific nightmare—Alex's face is twisted in pain, and something is terribly wrong. Hours later, at 2 a.m., her worst fears are realised when police arrive at her home in Spain to tell her that Alex has been killed. As the gruesome details of his final moments emerge, Katja struggles to process the unimaginable loss and the shocking reality of what happened. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled her spending review today, with budgets set out for all government departments over the next few years. The Standard's business editor Jonathan Prynn has the latest. And in part two, as featured in The Standard's Hidden London series, we're joined by John Darlington, an archaeologist and director of projects for the World Monuments Fund, to explore Boston Manor House. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More than 700 children, as young as 10, have been caught with knives and firearms in London schools, according to new figures obtained by The Standard. Crime correspondent Anthony France joins us to explain more. And in part two, food and drink writer Josh Barrie reveals the big winners from last night's National Restaurant Awards - with 56 restaurants in the capital making the top 100 list. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A boat of 12 activists - including Greta Thunberg - headed for Gaza to deliver urgent aid has been diverted to Israel and those on board ‘kidnapped'. Asad Rehman, Executive Director of the UK based human rights organisation War on Want, explains the latest. And in part two, news reporter Megan Howe reveals The Standard's exclusive freedom of information data on how much the Met police spent managing two large protests against China's proposed mega embassy in London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today Labour's Davy Russell narrowly defeated the SNP to win the by-election in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, with Reform coming a close third. The Standard's chief political correspondent Rachael Burford has the latest. And in part two, Rachelle Abbott meets the founder of hip hop band Cypress Hill, B-Real, to discuss the band's new album with the London Symphony Orchestra, which was recorded at London's Royal Albert Hall and was inspired by an episode of The Simpsons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katja Faber is a former barrister and journalist who has lived through every parent's worst nightmare—the death of her 23-year-old son, Alex Morgan. In our opening episode, Katja takes us back to 2014, introducing us to Alex and the glamorous, globetrotting world he was part of before his tragic killing later that year. We explore the circumstances surrounding his death and how he and his killer ended up taking drugs together in a Swiss villa on that fateful night. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has revealed what to expect in the upcoming spending review - including that winter fuel payments will be restored to some pensioners this year, in a government u-turn on the allowance cuts.To run us through the latest, we're joined by The Standard's Chief Political Correspondent, Rachael Burford.Plus, in part two, we'll be exploring whether monogamy is still a realistic, with culture writer Claudia Cockerell. https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/pensioners-winter-fuel-payments-reeves-spending-review-b1231164.html https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-monogamy-modern-relationships-b1230343.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today the New York private equity firm KKR dramatically pulled out of a financial rescue plan for the heavily indebted Thames Water. Eleanor Shearer, a senior research fellow at the Common Wealth think tank, joins us to ask what happens next. Plus, the Standard's showbiz correspondent Tina Campbell, is here to discuss the latest development in the continuing feud between It Ends With Us co-stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni.https://www.standard.co.uk/business/new-york-private-equity-kkr-thames-water-rescue-ofwat-b1230923.htmlhttps://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/blake-lively-justin-baldoni-medical-records-b1230950.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The London Standard's defence editor Robert Fox joins us to discuss the government's newly released strategic defence review.And in part two, he explains the latest on peace talks in Istanbul following Ukraine's long-range drone attack on Russia on Sunday.https://www.standard.co.uk/comment/defence-review-keir-starmer-spending-donald-trump-b1230498.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who is behind the red paint attacks both in and outside the capital? Journalist David James Smith reports on the latest, as Stella Creasy, MP for Walthamstow, urges the Met Police to treat the repeated vandalism with the seriousness it deserves.And in part two, journalist Lucy Pavia shares how you can bring the cottagecore garden trend to your own urban outdoor space. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ashok Kumar, an American associate professor of political economy at Birkbeck University, shares how the action of the US federal court has scuppered Trump's tariff plans, and impacted global trade relations.The Court of International Trade found the president overstepped his authority by imposing across-the-board duties on imports from US trading partners.And in part two, The Standard's review of Kylie Minogue at London's O2 with culture writer and commissioning editor Vicky Jessop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.