Podcast appearances and mentions of Simon Jenkins

How has modern architecture transformed our cities — and is it for the better? In this episode, bestselling historian Simon Jenkins and co-host of the Rest is Politics Rory Stewart explore the rise of modernist planning and its impact on Britain's architectural heritage. Jenkins walks us through Britain's rich architectural history, from Stonehenge to the Shard, while offering a critique of the changes brought by 20th-century urban development. Drawing on Jenkins' new book A Short History of British Architecture: From Stonehenge to the Shard, Jenkins and Stewart explore the tension between preserving heritage and embracing progress, revealing how architecture shapes both our cities and our sense of national identity. ------------- To become a Member and get access to all our full ad free conversations, plus all of our Members-only content, just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more. For £4.99 per month you'll also receive: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared episodes, wherever you get your podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series - 15% discount on livestreams and in-person tickets for all Intelligence Squared events  ...  Or Subscribe on Apple for £4.99: - Full-length and ad-free Intelligence Squared podcasts - Bonus Intelligence Squared podcasts, curated feeds and members exclusive series … Already a subscriber? Thank you for supporting our mission to foster honest debate and compelling conversations! Visit intelligencesquared.com to explore all your benefits including ad-free podcasts, exclusive bonus content and early access. … Subscribe to our newsletter here to hear about our latest events, discounts and much more. https://www.intelligencesquared.com/newsletter-signup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Merlin Fulcher is joined by the author, columnist and SAVE founding trustee Simon Jenkins to discuss: Smithfields meat market closes for good after 850 years // Councils raise concerns over unrealistic government housing targets // Brighton's i360 enters administration // And cycling in London booms more than 25 per cent in the past five yearsTo help support excellent and accessible, independent journalism about the buildings and the urban environment, please become an Open City friend by clicking here.The Brief is recorded and produced at the Open City offices located in Bureau. Bureau is a co-working space for creatives offering a new approach to membership workspace. Bureau prioritises not just room to think and do, but also shared resources and space to collaborate. To book a free day pass follow this link.The Brief is produced in association with the Architects' Journal, and the C20 Society.The Brief is also supported by Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and culture app. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Simon Jenkins – The Yorkshire Beer Bible: A drinker's guide to all the brewers and beers of God´s own county....with TRE's Anna Glowinski

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Episode 100!I need to say that again.Episode 100!Almost two years into the journey and we're still only  15 books into the 66 book epic that is the Bible.Still, why rush. You see a lot more from a slower bus.You join us at the start of the Book of Ezra, an exiled Jew who has returned to Jerusalem to rebuild its temple, a project that is not without its obstacles.Fun fact: Ezra probably also wrote the Books of Kings and Chronicles.Chapters covered: Ezra 1-4Written and produced by Chas BayfieldMusic by Michael Auld and Jon Hawkins MusicCover art by Lisa GoffThanks to:The NIV Zondervan Study Bible edited by D A Carson, Zondervan, 2017The Holy Bible Thompson Chain Reference Edition edited by Frank Charles Thompson, Hodder and Stoughton, 1986The NIV Study Bible edited by Kenneth Barker, Zondervan, 1984Life Application Study Bible edited by Dr Bruce B Barton, Kingsway, 2011Holy Bible NIV Version edited by Biblica, Hodder and Stoughton, 2011The New Compact Bible Dictionary by T Alton Bryant, Zondervan, 1987Unlocking the Bible by David Pawson, Collins, 2007The Lion Handbook to the Bible by David Alexander, Lion Hudson, 2009The New Bible Dictionary by J D Douglas, Tyndale House, 1982The Compact Bible Dictionary by Ronald Youngblood, Nelson, 2004The Bible Application Handbook by J I Packer and Derek Williams, Eagle, 2001 The Bible From Scratch by Simon Jenkins, Lion Hudson, 2009The World Jesus Knew by Anne Punton, Monarch, 2001I Never Knew That About Scotland by Christopher Winn, Ebury, 2007Trivia For the Toilet by Gavin Webster, Barnes and Noble, 2006 Biblegateway.orgGotquestions.orgQuora.comBiblecharts.orgLivescience.comInterestingliterature.comBiblicalarchaeology.orgAnswersingenesis.org  I am also hugely grateful for the pearls of wisdom shared by various speakers at events that I have attended and whose wisdom has helped me enormously, to the organisers of New Wine and Greenbelt Festival where I have been able to listen in and to wise and godly friends who have explained things in a language which I can understand. Thank you to: R T Kendall, former pastor at Westminster ChapelDr Jamie Davies, tutor in New Testament, Trinity College, BristolRev Stephen MacLean, pastor at Cricklewood Baptist ChurchMike Yaconelli (1942-2003), former pastor of Grace Community Church, Yreka CASteve Chalke, minister of Oasis Church, WaterlooNicky Gumbel, founder of the Alpha CourseCanon J John, founder of the Philo TrustJohn Grant, former moderator at the London Baptist AssociationTony and Brenda Lenthall, missionaries and friends.John Peters, Vicar of St Mary's Bryanston SquareTony Campolo, pastor and writer.Shane Claiborne, Christian ActivistSandy Millar, former vicar of Holy Trinity BromptonPeter Owen Jones, vicar, writer and broadcasterStuart Burgess, former Methodist chaplain to Birmingham UniversityRico Tice, Associate minister at All Souls Langham PlaceDamon and Sharron, missionariesJohn Griffiths, advertising strategist and Bible fanaticJon Leach, strategist and atheistKeith Van der Shaw, minister of Bay Church, Blackman Bay, Tasmania.Dan Hedley, minister of Snug Church, TasmaniaThe men in Andy Bosveld's shed. And all my non-Christian friends and colleagues whose doubts have helped me shape the content and style of this podcast

This week: The Xi files: China's global spy network. A Tory parliamentary aide and an academic were arrested this week for allegedly passing ‘prejudicial information' to China. In his cover piece Nigel Inkster, MI6's former director of operations and intelligence, explains the nature of this global spy network: hacking, bribery, manhunts for targets and more. To discuss, Ian Williams, author of Fire of the Dragon - China's New Cold War, and historian and Guardian columnist Simon Jenkins joined the podcast.. (02:05) Next: Lara and Gus take us through some of their favourite pieces in the magazine, including Douglas Murray's column and Gus's interview with the philosopher Daniel Dennett. Then: Tim Shipman writes for The Spectator about ‘hyper history'. This refers to the breathless last ten years in political history, encompassing the breakdown of old electoral coalitions, the formation of new ones and decisive prime ministers who all suffer from the same ‘power failure' – as he calls it. Tim joined the podcast to discuss further. (17:34) And finally: How the Jilly Cooper Book Club turned toxic. Flora Watkins joined a Jilly Cooper Book Club whose members got along famously – until lockdown and the ensuing culture wars. Debates over vaccines, lockdown and gender split them up more violently than any of their heroine's books. Flora is joined by the author and journalist Elisa Segrave to examine the toxicity of women-only book groups. (27:50) Hosted by Lara Prendergast and Gus Carter.  Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons. 

This week: The Xi files: China's global spy network. A Tory parliamentary aide and an academic were arrested this week for allegedly passing ‘prejudicial information' to China. In his cover piece Nigel Inkster, MI6's former director of operations and intelligence, explains the nature of this global spy network: hacking, bribery, manhunts for targets and more. To discuss, Ian Williams, author of Fire of the Dragon - China's New Cold War, and historian and Guardian columnist Simon Jenkins joined the podcast.. (02:05) Next: Lara and Gus take us through some of their favourite pieces in the magazine, including Douglas Murray's column and Gus's interview with the philosopher Daniel Dennett.  Then: Tim Shipman writes for The Spectator about ‘hyper history'. This refers to the breathless last ten years in political history, encompassing the breakdown of old electoral coalitions, the formation of new ones and decisive prime ministers who all suffer from the same ‘power failure' – as he calls it. Tim joined the podcast to discuss further. (17:34) And finally: How the Jilly Cooper Book Club turned toxic. Flora Watkins joined a Jilly Cooper Book Club whose members got along famously – until lockdown and the ensuing culture wars. Debates over vaccines, lockdown and gender split them up more violently than any of their heroine's books. Flora is joined by the author and journalist Elisa Segrave to examine the toxicity of women-only book groups. (27:50) Hosted by Lara Prendergast and Gus Carter.  Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Patrick Gibbons. 

How is God's glory shown in nature?Why does Psalm 19 talk about nature and the law?Why does God give laws to his people?Chris and David are currently recording Season 4. During the interim, we are posting bonus content including sermons, teachings and an upcoming Q&A. This week, please enjoy a guest sermon on Psalm 19 by the warden of Chris' church, Simon Jenkins.We need your support! Support from listeners like you keeps Come Read with Me going, so please consider donating at www.burningheart.org/comereadwithme.If you're not already, make sure to follow Chris on instagram for 60 sermons on @revchris7, and make sure to give David a follow on @burningheartorg.Come Read with Me, with Rev Chris and David Ingall is produced by the Listenarium. Original music by Jack Gionis.

How can I have peace in today's world? What is God's peace? How can I spread peace?Chris and David are currently still recording Season 3, the book of Acts. Until then, please enjoy a selection of sermons from Chris's church, Saint Saviours Wendell Park. Today's sermon comes from guest speaker Simon Jenkins and disusses the peace of God. Primary readings discussed in this sermon include Philippians 4:7 and the blessing in Isaiah 6.We need your support! Support from listeners like you keeps Come Read with Me going, so please consider donating at www.burningheart.org/comereadwithme.If you're not already, make sure to follow Chris on instagram for 60 sermons on @revchris7, and make sure to give David a follow on @burningheartorg.Come Read with Me, with Rev Chris and David Ingall is produced by the Listenarium. Original music by Jack Gionis.

David's rule begins as he crushes army after army, builds his citadel in Jerusalem and adopts his best friend's son.It all starts off so well...Chapters covered:  2 Samuel 6-9Written and produced by Chas BayfieldMusic by Michael Auld and Jon Hawkins MusicCover Art by Lisa GoffDownload Snakes and Angels, a Secular Walk through the First Five Books of the Bible, here:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Snakes-Angels-Secular-through-First-ebook/dp/B0CGR6PHQ4/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=snakes+and+angels&qid=1696807532&sr=8-2All of the books and websites below have proven invaluable to putting together this book. Many of the books belong to my in-laws, Lesley and Geoff Tilley in Kingston, Tasmania where a large chunk of the Vible was pulled together. The NIV Zondervan Study Bible edited by D A Carson, Zondervan, 2017The Holy Bible Thompson Chain Reference Edition edited by Frank Charles Thompson, Hodder and Stoughton, 1986The NIV Study Bible edited by Kenneth Barker, Zondervan, 1984Life Application Study Bible edited by Dr Bruce B Barton, Kingsway, 2011Holy Bible NIV Version edited by Biblica, Hodder and Stoughton, 2011The New Compact Bible Dictionary by T Alton Bryant, Zondervan, 1987Unlocking the Bible by David Pawson, Collins, 2007The Lion Handbook to the Bible by David Alexander, Lion Hudson, 2009The New Bible Dictionary by J D Douglas, Tyndale House, 1982The Compact Bible Dictionary by Ronald Youngblood, Nelson, 2004The Bible Application Handbook by J I Packer and Derek Williams, Eagle, 2001 The Bible From Scratch by Simon Jenkins, Lion Hudson, 2009The World Jesus Knew by Anne Punton, Monarch, 2001I Never Knew That About Scotland by Christopher Winn, Ebury, 2007Trivia For the Toilet by Gavin Webster, Barnes and Noble, 2006 Biblegateway.orgGotquestions.orgQuora.comBiblecharts.orgLivescience.comInterestingliterature.comBiblicalarchaeology.orgAnswersingenesis.orgI am also hugely grateful for the pearls of wisdom shared by various speakers at events that I have attended and whose wisdom has helped me enormously, to the organisers of New Wine and Greenbelt Festival where I have been able to listen in and to wise and godly friends who have explained things in a language which I can understand. Thank you to:R T Kendall, former pastor at Westminster ChapelDr Jamie Davies, tutor in New Testament, Trinity College, BristolRev Stephen MacLean, pastor at Cricklewood Baptist ChurchMike Yaconelli (1942-2003), former pastor of Grace Community Church, Yreka CASteve Chalke, minister of Oasis Church, WaterlooNicky Gumbel, founder of the Alpha CourseCanon J John, founder of the Philo TrustJohn Grant, former moderator at the London Baptist AssociationTony and Brenda Lenthall, missionaries and friends.John Peters, Vicar of St Mary's Bryanston SquareTony Campolo, pastor and writer.Shane Claiborne, Christian ActivistSandy Millar, former vicar of Holy Trinity BromptonPeter Owen Jones, vicar, writer and broadcasterStuart Burgess, former Methodist chaplain to Birmingham UniversityRico Tice, Associate minister at All Souls Langham PlaceDamon and Sharron, missionariesJohn Griffiths, advertising strategist and Bible fanaticJon Leach, strategist and atheistKeith Van der Schoor and the men in Andy Bosveld's shed

Skip the Queue is brought to you by Rubber Cheese, a digital agency that builds remarkable systems and websites for attractions that helps them increase their visitor numbers. Your host is  Kelly Molson, Founder of Rubber Cheese.Download the Rubber Cheese 2022 Visitor Attraction Website Report - the first digital benchmark statistics for the attractions sector.If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, and all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue or visit our website rubbercheese.com/podcast.If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review, it really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on Twitter for your chance to win the books that have been mentioned in this podcastCompetition ends on 20th December 2023. The winner will be contacted via Twitter.Show references: https://vacevents.com/THURSDAY 5TH OCTOBER – QEII CONFERENCE CENTRE, WESTMINSTERhttps://vacevents.com/committee/ Bernard Donoghue OBECEO & Director, ALVA, the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions, Mayor of London's Culture Ambassador. Co-Chair, London Tourism Recovery Board.https://www.alva.org.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernard-donoghue-obe-0aa9b97/ Bernard has been the Director of ALVA, the UK's Association for Leading Visitor Attractions, since 2011 following a career in advocacy, communications, and lobbying, latterly at a senior level in the tourism and heritage sector. In  2017, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, appointed Bernard to be the Mayor's Ambassador for Cultural Tourism and a member of the Mayor's Cultural Leadership Board. Bernard is Co-Chair of the London Tourism Recovery Board. He is also Chairman of LIFT, London International Festival of Theatre; Chairman of the Bristol Old Vic, the oldest continually operating theatre in the English-speaking world, and also of the People's History Museum, the Museum of Democracy.  He has been a member of the UK Government's Tourism Industry Council since 2016.  Bernard was named by Blooloop in 2020 as one of the world's 50 most influential people in museums, and in July 2021 won the public vote for the COVID Special Recognition Award from the UK Museums and Heritage Awards for his service to, and leadership of the museums and heritage sector in the UK during the pandemic. Ken Robinson CBE FTS - Founder of VAChttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-robinson-cbe-fts-bb811312/Ken is an independent adviser who speaks and writes on tourism topics.  As a "tourism enthusiast" he aims to be a pragmatic pioneer of new initiatives, strategies and solutions to optimise the economic, cultural and social benefits of tourism.   Ken's Consultancy companies completed over 1500 assignments, mostly in the UK but also several hundred international projects, beginning over 50 years ago, before the days of mass tourism.  He was a founding member of the Tourism Society and supported the formation of the Tourism Alliance, both of which organisations he has served as a board member and Chair, as he has on several other Tourism bodies. Specialising initially in visitor attractions, Ken initiated and subsequently chaired the National Visitor Attractions Conference, VAC, and has been on its Committee ever since.  In addition to many clients in the public, private and third sectors, he has advised the UN's International Trade Centre, on national and regional Tourism strategy development.  His current focus is to move the industry's thinking from marketing to the critical need to manage future tourism for the benefit of host communities, and to optimise tourist's experiences.  Ken was appointed CBE for services to Tourism in 1997, and an Honorary Doctorate in 2014. Paul KellyChief Executive, BALPPA, Chair of VAC https://www.balppa.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kelly-2714a922/Having been with BALPPA for 11 years and working with VAC for that amount of time as well, Paul started his career in the attractions sector at Thorpe Park in the 80's and then moved on to the London Eye for its opening around the millennium.  He has  always been involved with visitor attractions.  Several more years working within Merlin followed both in the UK and abroad, mainly on business development.  Being a BALPPA member for 30 years means, being Chair of the organising committee at VAC keeps Paul in touch with all aspects of the attractions industry. Liz Terry MBEManaging Director, Leisure Media Grouphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elizterry/ Janet Uttley Head of Business Transformation for VisitEnglandhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/janetuttley/  Transcriptions: Kelly Molson: Welcome to Skip The Queue, a podcast for people working in or working with visitor attractions. I'm your host, Kelly Molson. Season 5 kicks off today with not one, not two, but three excellent guests.On today's episode, I have the pleasure of speaking to Bernard Donoghue, Paul Kelly and Ken Robinson, founders of the Visitor Attractions Conference. You also know Bernard as, Director of ALVA and Paul as CEO of BALPPA.VAC celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and I'm finding out where the idea for the event spanned from, how it's changed and developed over the years. And we take a look ahead to what 2024 has in store for the attraction sector.Unfortunately, fellow Founder; Liz Terry, the Managing Director of Leisure Media Group, and also Janet Uttley, Head of Business Transformation for VisitEngland, were unable to join us on this episode. But stay tuned for lots of insight and to find out how you can get your ticket for the VAC conference this year.Kelly Molson: If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue.Kelly Molson: Bernard, Ken, Paul, it is a treat to have you all on the podcast today. Thank you for joining me. I think this is the first time I've had three guests as well, so this could be interesting. Bernard Donoghue: And three men as well. I mean, it's like a really bad testosterone banana rama, isn't it? Really. Kelly Molson: I'm just a little flower in the middle of you thorns today. Yes, it's a real shame. So, unfortunately, Janet Uttley and Liz Terry couldn't make it along to join us today, which is a shame. But I'm sure that they will get lots of mentions as we talk through some of the things that we're going to chat about today. But first, as ever, I want to start with a little icebreaker. I'm going to ask you all the same thing because I'm intrigued as to whether you ended up doing what you thought you might. So, Ken, I'm going to start with you first. When you were at school, what did you think that you'd grow up and be when you were older? Ken Robinson: I didn't know. Kelly Molson: Had no clue at all? Ken Robinson: No, I didn't have a clue. I was lucky to have a good education. I didn't work at school. And then I got into a job, which was I was very successful at it and it was very boring. So I left. And when I discovered tourism and visitor attractions, it took me over. I didn't decide to do it. It told me that was it. Kelly Molson: Oh, I love it. It's like a calling. Ken Robinson: At the time it was, I was actually sitting in a turret room which had been vacated by Lord Montague. His desk used to face in and I liked that because I didn't have to look at the faces of the visitors going past who might complain, because in those days, buli was very expensive. And then one day I thought to myself, these people are investing their hard earned money and leisure time in making a decision to come here and it's our job to make sure they have a good time. And I turned my desk round and I looked at them all day long and the moment I turned my desk round, everything changed. Kelly Molson: I love that, because you could see the whites of their eyes and how they were engaging with the venue as they turned up. Ken Robinson: Well, it's just such a failure, isn't it? If you've got somebody who makes a choice and spends their time and money, a family decision for many people, and it should be a highlight. And if it isn't, whose fault is it? It's probably the fault of the visitor attraction, given that the person has chosen to go there in not communicating well enough with them about what they've got and what they would find interesting. Kelly Molson: This is such a brilliant story and that wasn't where I was expecting this to go either, Ken. I love it. Paul, what about you, Paul?Paul Kelly: Yeah, I mean, when I was at school, I was interested in sports and that was it, really, and luckily, that dragged me through the various places I went to. But what I was going to end up doing sports. I think once you get into sports quite seriously, you realise fairly quickly that actually you're not going to make it, so you have to find something else. So, laterally, I decided that business was a good idea. So I started doing business studies up in North Wales and for some reason were doing a sandwich course in those days, I think it was called that. One of those, I got placed at Thorpe Park. I don't know why particularly, so there's a group of six of us went down to Thorpe Park to work there and I actually started working on the rides.Paul Kelly: I'm not sure what it had to do with business at the time, but I'm glad somebody thought it did. And I couldn't believe that was a job that you could do, you could be paid for, because I came from the north at that point and there wasn't an awful lot going on in the 80s and actually be paid. Everyone enjoyed themselves, fantastic atmosphere, parties every night. I'm sure it's still like that. And it was just amazing. And from that moment on, regardless of what happened after that, including other colleges, other bits and pieces, effectively, I never left. Kelly Molson: It's always going to be in that sector. Paul Kelly: Yes. Kelly Molson: Excellent. Great. Bernard, same to you. Bernard Donoghue: Well, this may come as a surprise, but my grandfather was in the Irish Guards, my father was in the Grenadier Guards, my brother was in the Royal Marines, and I had a very large collection of action men. I genuinely thought I would probably end up in the army. And actually, I got an offer after university to go into the Household Cavalry. I don't think I've ever told anyone this before. Anyway, it just clearly I didn't pursue the application. It wasn't for me at all. Got really into politics. So I started working in the House of Commons, House of Lords and the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, and then I've just been in sort of lobbying, campaigning, political world ever since. But I still miss the uniforms. Can't deny it. Kelly Molson: I think we'd like to see you in that uniform, Bernard, if I'm not going to lie. So from the lobbying aspect, which is obviously a really big part of the role that you currently have, how did the attractions bit kind of slot into those? Where did the two join up? Bernard Donoghue: It's a really odd coincidence. I was trustee of a charity that Diana, Princess of Wales, was a patron of, and I was working full time for a charity that she was a patron of. So when she divorced Prince of Wales, now the King, she reduced her patronages down from 187 to six. And I happened to be involved with six of them. I went to work for her as a deputy private secretary, press secretary. But of course, the moment she died, which was August 31st, I had no job. Suddenly I was unemployed. And I got contacted by a woman who Ken will certainly know, probably Paul will, too, by Sue Garland, who used to be Deputy Chief Executive of VisitBritain, who'd heard me speak at something and said, "Well, we're just about to create this post of government affairs liaison. Would you be interested to working on the role while working on what you do next?”Bernard Donoghue: And that was in August 1997. And here I am still. Ken Robinson: But also, can I add something to that? Because I was lucky enough to be sitting in the room on many occasions when Bernard would give his briefing at meetings that were held by VisitBritain. And it was always a highlight of the day because Bernard, in those days, never pulled his punches. I'm not saying he does now, but he would just explain to everybody in the room what was going on with all of the political parties, which we never understood, and explain what we ought to be doing in order to best put our case. So it was really no shock when he turned up at ALVA, because I would say this if he wasn't here, he was the star of the show there, and that expertise that he showed has blossomed in the job that he's doing now. Kelly Molson: This is lovely, isn't it? Aren't you all nice? Bernard Donoghue: This is love in.. Kelly Molson: Probably why you all work together, right? You will get on so well. Right, back to you, Ken. Unpopular opinion, please. Ken Robinson: Most visitor attractions do not deliver full value for money to most of their visitors. Kelly Molson: Okay, Paul and Bernard, do you agree with this? Will our listeners agree with this? Is this an unpopular opinion?Paul Kelly: Did you use the word most, Ken? Ken Robinson: I did. Paul Kelly: I'll go for some, not most. Bernard Donoghue: Yeah, I'll go for some as well. One of my favourite programmes is Yes, Minister. And whenever you'd hear something off the wall, bonkers, they would say, that's a very brave opinion, Minister. That's a very brave opinion, Ken.Ken Robinson: Now's not the time to justify it. I'll do that on another occasion. Kelly Molson: Yeah, we will invite you back and we can do that one on one, Ken. Paul, what about you? Unpopular opinion? Paul Kelly: Well, I'm guessing that anybody that's worked in a theme park will probably have the same opinion I have. So I worked at Thorpe Park, which was 450 acres, two thirds of which was water. And at the end of the day, when you were walking out, and in those days, that could be 9, 10 o'clock at night, it was beautiful. On a late summer's evening, calm waters, walking through a park which had just been cleaned and tidied and ready for the next day. It was fantastic. And we all had the same opinion once were down the pub discussing the day. It's just a shame we have to let people into theme parks because it's the absolutely beautiful place without them there. So sometimes people let the parks down. Kelly Molson: That's a good one. That is a good one. Yeah. And you don't want to let them in to see the beautiful bit either, do you? Because then there'd be people there. It wouldn't be serene. Paul Kelly: No, I mean, those evenings, if there was still time, we'd go windsurfing on the lakes, cable water ski around the back. And it was just a shame that all these people came in every day and messed it all up. Kelly Molson: Yeah. Well, I'm pretty sure that most people who've worked in theme parks aren't going to disagree with you on that one, Paul. Good one. Bernard, what about yours? Bernard Donoghue: Even though I chair a theatre and I know how important the revenue is, I'm not a fan of selling drinks and food to people in theatres because they just make a noise. I can't bear it. I mean, it depends. I mean, it depends if it's a panto or something like that. Completely fine. Ken Robinson: Oh, no, it's not. Bernard Donoghue: It kind of allies to what Paul was saying as well, which was I don't know whether it's an unpopular opinion. I think it's probably a popular opinion. But visitor behaviour, whether it's in a theatre, a museum, an art gallery or wherever, has completely deteriorated post lockdown. Some people's behaviour is getting worse and it's very difficult to know what to do about it. Kelly Molson: Yes, agree. I don't think that's going to be very unpopular at all, actually, considering some of the things that we've seen recently. Thank you all for sharing. Okay, let's get back to the serious bit. The Visitor Attractions Conference. It's 20 years old this year. If you are listening and you're not familiar with it, one, why the hell not? And two, you need to grab a ticket today. It's the leading networking and learning event for visitor attractions across the UK. And I first visited in October 2019 and it was the first sector specific conference that I had been to. We'd been working in the sector for probably about three or four years, had never really at that point kind of gone all out on our like, "This is what we're going to niche and this is what we're going to specialise in."Kelly Molson: So I was kind of doing a bit of a fact finding mission really, and I came along and it absolutely blew me away. I think it was one of the friendliest conferences I've ever been to. I think you'd created an environment where everybody was really welcome, no stupid questions. Everyone from speakers to guests where kind of felt like they were all on the same level, really happy to answer questions that you had, really happy to talk to you. And I think that was for me. I came away from that event, I went back to my team and said, "This is where we should be. This is the event for us, this is where we should be attending, these are the people that we should be speaking to." And I've absolutely loved every minute of that. Kelly Molson: I mean, the next one I went to was a virtual one. So it was very different to the 2019 event, but still excellently organised. So firstly, thank you for making that happen. But where did the idea for the VAC come from in the first place? How did this come about? Ken Robinson: So we have to remember that the world was very different over 20 years ago. Really, really very different. Not just a question of internet or pre COVID and all those things and pre Olympics, but just very different. And attractions in those days thought and acted and communicated in their sectoral associations. Historic houses talked to historic houses, curators of museums talked to curators, bishops talked to priests, zoologists talked to botanists, but they didn't talk across the sectors. There were two exceptions to that. One was that in Visit England or English Tourist Board, there'd always been a committee there which was across the sectors, but the other one was ALVA. Now, when ALVA was formed, it was a 1 million visitors plus club for attractions, with 1 million plus visitors a year. Ken Robinson: Subsequently, groups of attractions, particularly English Heritage, National Trust, were involved originally associates, but it was a 1 million plus club and that's only 1% of the attractions in the United Kingdom had over 1 million. And it was very London centric. And ALVA had a five objectives, four of which were about government. And the interesting thing was that I was very good friends all through this time with Lord Lee, who know a very big part of the early success, pre Bernard of ALVA. I said to John Lee, “Look John, could you not change your name to ALVA and be involved with all the visitor attractions because they badly need something which glues everybody together and we need to get across this away from this sectoral stuff.” Ken Robinson: And everybody was talking about historic houses, talk about the house museums, talking about the continents of the museum but they weren't talking about visitors. They weren't talking about how you communicated with the visitors or what they were motivated by or how you could better manage things for visitors, give them better they weren't doing that. So John agreed with this and I've got the original papers here. I looked them out that I was asked first of all by ALVA in December of 2001 to write a paper on the future of ALVA which is headed: ALVA in the Future Representing All Visitor Attractions. Then after that the conversation went on and we realised that if were going to have some kind of overall event we couldn't do it without the National Tourist Board, we couldn't do it without Visit Britain, Visit England. We needed their input.Ken Robinson: We needed them to talk to DCMS and make sure it would happen. And also we wanted to do this not on a commercial basis but being by the industry, for the industry, run by the industry, not for profit. And that was a problem because we wanted to do it in the QE II Centre because we wanted to be in the centre of everything and that was going to cost an extraordinary sum of money and there wasn't that much money that could in that first year come originally from VisitEngland. So the partners in this, the partners being ALVA, BALPPA, Paul's organisation, Leisure Media the wonderful Liz Terry and her magazine which has forever been behind this event for no recompense whatever and myself put up 5000 pounds each security in order that the thing would happen. Ken Robinson: You said, "We'll stand the risk, let's do it.". So in 2004 I wrote the briefing of the first conference and I found from a 2003 the government asked for a list of topics that would be discussed in order they could work out whether or not they might like it and it's still here. What I like about it is it would do quite well for this year's conference. All those topics are still relevant. So that's where it came from. That's where it came from. We wanted it to have at the time the lowest possible attendance fee to get the highest number of people there. We wanted to involve everybody. Ken Robinson: And the cast list for that 2004 event, my goodness me, absolutely fantastic cast list in terms of the people we had for an initial event and you can imagine when it was announced and everybody was behind it ALVA was behind it. BALPPA, I should have mentioned that Colin Dawson, Paul's predecessor was an absolute stalwart of the conference in the early years he stood by know, when times were tough and that's where it came from. Kelly Molson: That is phenomenal. It was really putting your money where your mouth is, isn't it? By all of you actually personally investing in this thing to bring it to life. You don't hear many things happening in that way anymore, do you? It's all about getting investment and asking other people to make the commitment to it and take the risk. Ken Robinson: Well, we have a company now, I should say. We have a company called VAC Events, and we are all equal. The four of us are equal shareholders, that's to say, Bernard and ALVA, BALPPA and Paul, Liz and myself, for no benefit. Martin does it for us, but we are the people that carry the can, if you like, and I don't think we've ever had anything out of it apart from a nice lunch at Christmas, but apart from that, it's a great feeling of doing something. When you say everybody is very friendly and talks to one another. That's why they're all in the same business. Bishop, curator, zoologist person running a heritage railway, they're all in the same business. Kelly Molson: Obviously, the first event was a success. You've been on and you've done many, what, 20, 20 events since that first one. How have you seen it kind of change and develop over the years? So what did that first conference look like compared to what this year's will look like? And how have you kind of evolved it over that time to keep it relevant to your audience? Paul Kelly: Well, I think so. My involvement directly has been the last ten years, so I'm halfway through chairing for this one, but I was actually there at the early ones because I worked at that time. I was working at the London Eye, just across the river, and I was good friends with Colin Dawson at the time. I'd worked with him at Thorpe Park and he for some people, may well remember Colin as entertaining Princess Diana on a log flume in 92, 3 and 4. Paul Kelly: And I was there. It's hard to tell, but I was actually there. I'm not in any of the photos in Paris Match and all of those places. I have a couple of myself here. I didn't get anything signed by Princess Diana and sent over to you know, bitterness takes a while to and I've joked with Colin over this many years. Colin was there, but if you look closely behind the scenes, you'll find I was there too, but so I was great friends with Colin over many years and still am. He was obviously contacting everyone he knew about this conference. He was working for BALPPA at the time. I was working for the Two Swords Group, had the operational contract for the London Eye. Paul Kelly: So I went to the first one and I suppose my impressions of the first one was for somebody who hasn't been there before, the QE II is extremely impressive as a conference center. I don't go to many that look like that around the UK. Most of them normally the ones I go to are in attractions, they're slightly different so it was hugely impressive both on its location and what was across the road and how things went and I was a little bit starstruck I suppose, for the first one. Now I get the opportunity to sit on the stage and look out at everybody and have a slightly different view on it all, but still think it's an extremely impressive environment to do that. Paul Kelly: And I think the biggest change for me, and I think we may cover a little bit later, is how we've broken up the afternoons into separate segments and sections where people can go along to a smaller, informal group discussing a topic that they particularly want. And I think the thing I also like about that is the amount of people who want to go to more than one of them that are on at the same time and are almost complaining there's too many things to go to, which I think is hilarious, which means it's really good. And hopefully that means that next time they'll really think about which one do I want to go to, obviously I want to go to more than one, but I'm going to pick my best one. Paul Kelly: So I think for me, that's probably the biggest change over time. But what doesn't change for me is the team that we have putting these things together, which we're actually relatively slick at. Everyone gets the chance to put their opinions and I'm glad we don't record those meetings and it works out really well. And I think as a team, it's amazing how long we've stuck at it and stuck together. Kelly Molson: I'd love to be on a little fly on the wall for those meetings. Have you ever had a fallout about something? Bernard Donoghue: Yes, we're frequently violent. It's a visitor experience in its own right, I think. Kelly Molson: I'll pay for it. Bernard Donoghue: We reflect the madness that some of our visitors demonstrate on site so in that case I think we're rooted in the industry. The first one that I went to was in 2011, so I just joined ALVA at that point. And the first one I spoke, it was in 2012 and I've been doing the same kind of slot ever since. I do a kind of State of the Nation in the morning because ALVA obviously gets loads of data and information and we publish all of our visitor figures and all the rest of it, and actually we collect and commission much more data now than we ever used to. So I share all of that in the kind of Donoghue half hour copyright. Bernard Donoghue: What's lovely I mean, Paul's absolutely right is that over the last twelve years I think we've seen a real move from people desperately wanting to speak about their successes to being really open about what hasn't worked, which of course is far more interesting and useful. So there's been a really lovely shift from people saying, "No, I don't have to do the propaganda stuff.” Actually, I'm going to tell you what it was like, why it was a disaster and what we learned from it. And that's so useful. So you do get this real honesty coming from the speakers who know that's what they find useful too. So why not share it? I think the other one is I do a presentation about, is there core behaviours of successful visitor attractions regardless of type?Bernard Donoghue: And there are there's about ten of them, but one of them is the ability to foster creative partnerships with unusual suspects. So the presentations that are most fascinating for me is where a visitor attraction, it doesn't matter whether it's a cathedral or whether it's a museum or gallery or theme park, have teamed up with someone that you wouldn't expect them to team up with to tell the story of their people and places and collections in a new, innovating, exciting way. And those are fascinating, absolutely fascinating. So I love those. There's much more of that. Kelly Molson: Fantastic. Well, on that note, I want to know from each of you who has been the most inspiring speaker that you've had at the conference over the past 20 years. Ken, let us start with you. Who do you think would be on your list for that? Ken Robinson: I had a look through the programs going back to 2004 and came up with the following names which surprised me, actually. I think originally our first most inspiring speaker was Simon Jenkins, the columnist of the Times, who had very strong views, which didn't necessarily agree with what government and others were doing. He did give a very inspiring presentation and then there are some people who perhaps we would expect less. The most single most surprising speaker was somebody called Tristram Mayhew, who titles himself as the Chief Gorilla of Go Ape and in a room full of suits and quite smart dresses and trouser suits, Go Ape shambled onto the stage in a car key shirt and proceeded to explain how he'd done things differently. And frankly, it was riveting. We had a chap called Tony Berry from the National Trust who gave presentations. Ken Robinson: His first one was just stunnning, you know, in the days when HR was less popular, Tony Berry would tell you why you should be interested and he was absolutely amazing. And Sue Wilkinson, incidentally, of the National Trust, who was the person responsible really for dragging the Trust from its sort of old form to its new marketing orientated thinking about its supporters future success? She was terrific. And the other person I would mention another Tony, I don't know whether or Tony's there's Tony Butler from the Museum of East Anglian Life, who again, when Bernard was talking about people talking about doing things differently and it inspires you. Some of those examples are very interesting, but not easy to copy. Ken Robinson: In other attractions, we always look for things that do go across the piece, so anybody can learn from the lessons within the example that we're talking about. And incidentally, we do have arguments in meetings, it's about whether particular speakers and particular topics are the way of doing things. And generally speaking, when we all have a good go at it comes out better than it did when anybody said, “Well, I know what the right answer is. No, you don't. Let's all talk about it. So that works.” So you get these people that actually inspire and they light up the room, not because of clever graphics and not because of a forceful way, but they light up the room because of the originality of their ideas. Now, I'll come to my number one. Ken Robinson: I'm sorry about this, because he's sitting on my screen down there, and that's young Bernard, who since he joined our there you go. That's the top half that works. You should see the bottom half doesn't work. He's just had pins put in it. Kelly Molson: Just for our listeners here, Bernard is given a little muscle strong arm salute on screen here. Ken Robinson: Bernard combines the latest immediate knowledge of talking to people across the industry with an absolutely amazing gift of the gab, with a power of communication. And he's unstoppable. And we wouldn't have stood him for all these years if he wasn't. So of all the years and all the speakers, the consistent best is Bernard. But we have had other people, often surprising, who take know, you don't expect it, you think you're going to listen to ordinary session, all of a sudden it takes fire. Kelly Molson: Bernard, what have you got to say to that? Bernard Donoghue: What I say to Ken is there are packets of cash going from London to the south coast with immediate effect. Delighted. Thank you very much. It's really lovely, actually. I've tried to change things every year to do partly political, but also partly about good practice and who's doing what and who's interesting. I'll tell you what, one of my favourite speakers, and it was in a conversation, one of the things that we've introduced is a sort of conversation with slot, which works really well, actually, because a bit like this, you're off script, you respond to people. Liz chaired a conversation last year, so were in Birmingham last year and it was all about HR issues and of course, it know, coming out of COVID and cost of living crisis and recruitment challenges and all of those kind of stuff. Bernard Donoghue: And Tina Lewis is the director of people at the National Trust. National Trust, getting great repertoire here. She came out with an idea that they're doing at the National Trust and I've implemented it in the three organisations that I chair and it's made the biggest difference. So the National Trust, they will pay the rent deposit for your flat if you need them to. So if you're going through a cost of living crisis and you can't get up the cash to put down a rent deposit on your flat, they'll do it for you. You can't get up the cash to put down a rent deposit on your flat, they'll do it for you. That was such a transformational thing to hear. You could almost hear the gasp in the room of people going, "Oh, my God. Yeah, if we can, let's do that." Bernard Donoghue: And I've now introduced it. As I say in the organisations that I chair, not many people have taken it up, but the fact that we've said it has made such a difference to people. I mean, as it is at the Trust, actually, there's been a relatively small number of people at the Trust who've taken it up, but the very policy decision, the very communication of it, just spoke volumes about an organisation that cares about its staff, and particularly those staff who are on really limited budgets. So there's been loads and loads of speakers over the course of the last few years, but that for me was a nugget which has changed people's lives and has been implementable. Kelly Molson: I think that's the key to that part, isn't it, is that it's an incredible thing that they've done, but the fact that it can be implemented someone has listened to that talk. They can take that away, take it to their board, take it to whoever needs to okay that, and they can put that into action like that straight away. That's the power of a really good initiative and a good speaker to be able to deliver that as well. Paul, what about you? Please don't say Bernard. I think he's had enough praise today. Bernard Donoghue: No, keep going. Kelly Molson: No. Paul Kelly: You're OK, Bernard? We'll leave that one where it is, shall we? If we can squeeze Bernard into the room next. Right, so one special mention I wanted to give, actually, which is one of the years not too long ago, we invited Simon Calder to speak, the travel journalist, and I have to say I wasn't convinced, because clearly he's not working in one of our attractions and doesn't necessarily know the industry pretty well. But I have to say, he was hugely entertaining, had done his homework, was hugely knowledgeable, and so he was absolutely excellent. But I think the most important thing for me is that he left us and he said to me, “Enjoyed it so much, I'll come back later.” And I said, “Yes, of course you will.”Paul Kelly: So he went away and he came back at the end of the day to talk to all the people that he'd seen early in the day, because he loved the atmosphere and he wasn't required to do that. And he came along. And for that I have to put a special mention in one for myself to actually listen to the others when they say, “This will be good”, and secondly for him, for actually doing a bit and actually coming back later. And he was a fabulous addition and outside of our industry. So my inside the industry one is somebody I ended up working with because I was with the Two Swords group and then they were bought by Merlin with Nick Varney and his Merry Men. Paul Kelly: So Nick and his team had obviously been in the industry a very long time at this point, dipped in and out of theme parks and attractions. But Nick didn't actually do many talks. You wouldn't actually hear him speak about too much. I'd heard him speak over in the IAAPA trade show held in Orlando every November, and he was absolutely brilliant. And then Ken managed to get him to speak at VAC one year. And again, he was absolutely excellent. And this fits in nicely because now that he's retired from Merlin, he's speaking again this year. So I think that will be really interesting because he's absolutely excellent. Ken Robinson: And by the way, guys, just to show you that we know what we're doing here, this is 2004, okay? And it says here the recipe for success. Nick Varney chief executive, will talk about the components for commercial success. And that's before. So we've got him first and look what happened. Kelly Molson: I'm really looking forward to that interview, actually, and I think it would be really interesting to see how he differs now. He's kind of outside of the sector, and I think that the format that you've got him in. So that's the interview with Liz, isn't it? On stage? I think that's going to be a really great format as well. I've seen that work really well in the past where she's interviewed people and it just feels really comfortable and really conversational. I think that brings out the best of people. Bernard Donoghue: Kelly, do you want to know who's been of most variable quality? Kelly Molson: Oh, yes. Bernard Donoghue: Tourism Minister. I mean, without doubt. I mean, we've been going 20 years now, therefore we've had 20 tourism ministers, had one a year, like Christmas cards. And some of them have completely got the industry completely understood. It delivered a barnstorming speech, and then the next year you'll get the annual Tourism Minister pop up and they'll read something flat, banal, uninteresting. And we're so torched by the experience that we don't invite the one next on the year. So we're always banging on about this. Tourism is very good at job creation. In fact, we've created 20 Tourism Minister jobs in years, but they are of variable quality. Ken Robinson: The best we ever had, Bernard, I think, by far, was John Penrose, when he had completed his review of the industry and got very clear views, which he put to government. Unfortunately, government didn't do it, as they usually don't, but he was good and people liked him and gave him a high rating. I think the next best was probably Margaret Hodge, who was very good and spoke from the heart. But as you say, when we look at every year, we look at a rating of every speaker and the meeting after the event, we go through those ratings and decide, those that got good ratings, why did they get it? Was it intrinsic to their character, their nature, their topic? Was there something special? And those who didn't, why was that? Was it our fault? Ken Robinson: Did we not brief them properly? Or was it never going to be any better? Ken Robinson: And that way we managed to manage the conference. So know the attraction sector. We sometimes forget that over half of all visits to visitor attractions in the UK are free of charge. We forget that the majority of visitor attractions are medium and small businesses. We forget that there are charitable and commercial attractions. We must be able to bring this whole sector together and move our thinking forward in the way that Bernard has just explained in terms of what he does with ALVA. And the other thing that Bernard mentioned was ALVA's research now. Ken Robinson: 20 years ago, you had to wait until the annual book came out from Thames Tower and then eventually from the centre of luck look to page 16 and there would be numbers, but very little interpretation of what those numbers meant. Now, Bernard is behind much of the work that is done now with ALVA. But the key to it is it's not just numbers, it's interpretation. And because of the communication skills, when ALVA put out a message, it is interpreted. It says why it was a successful year or what was mitigating against that. And that's so important in trying to move our case forward. Kelly Molson: But it's important in improving the content that you give your audience at the conferences as well, right? If something isn't working and you've got a process of evaluating why that hasn't worked and how you improve on it for the next one. Let's just focus on why should people attend VAC this year? What is in it for them? What's on the agenda? What have they got to look forward to and how can we get them to book a ticket? Bernard Donoghue: I'll happily go first and go quite niche, actually. One of the things that I do now outside of ALVA, or because of ALVA is that I co chair the advisory board for VisitLondon. So essentially chair the London tourist board. And I do that with Kate Nichols of UK hospitality. And we created the London Tourism Recovery Group during COVID So my suggestion would be Sadiq Khan. So we've managed to get the Mayor of London to come along and speak at this anniversary conference. And it's not just because he's the Mayor of London and it's the 20th anniversary, but it's because he's the first ever Mayor of London that hazard one of his four political priorities, culture and tourism. That's number one. Bernard Donoghue: Number two is that he put his money where his mouth was and he funded the Let's Do London Recovery campaign, which was both domestic and international with the industry. We delivered it with London and partners, but he put up the lump sum behind it. And third, he completely gets that tourism and heritage and culture is both where you grow jobs and we're very good at it, but it's also where you grow people. It's where you grow people in terms of their cultural literacy or their sense of community or their independence or their sense of history. And therefore knowing where you come from enables you to be a better future citizen, if you like. Bernard Donoghue: So my quick blast would be we've got him doing a welcome, but also saying why visitor attractions and tourism are so important to him and to the economy and the politics of London. So that's not to be missed. Kelly Molson: That is a big draw. Absolutely a big draw. Paul, you mentioned earlier about the variety in splitting up that second session, that second part of the day with the seminars and the smaller talks that you do as well. That for me, as an attendee, is really valuable because you can kind of pick and choose what's relevant to you and go along and see lots of different talks. What do you think is the draw for people to come to the conference this year for you? Paul Kelly: Well, I was just jotting down, thinking about it's a little bit. An extension of what Ken was talking about is that it's the variety of what we do in one place is greater than anywhere else. And all the conferences I do because of the nature of what we do each end of the spectrum. So we've got talks about people who run charities to people who run hugely commercial operations. We've got people doing talks on which are free to get into those who are quite expensive, but focus on value for money. And you've got those that are indoor, those that are outdoor. When I spent my time business development at Merlin, they were always focused on a balanced portfolio. And a balanced portfolio meant making sure that right across your business, you have every aspect covered. Paul Kelly: So everything balances indoor, outdoor, UK, Europe, USA, whatever it is. And I think with our conference, that's what we try and do, we try and balance all of those types of different types of operations so that everything is covered, not to the point where it's too thin and you don't learn anything. And that's the key to it, is that we go into the depth. And the depth, I think, is greater now because we do those breakout sessions and we've got time to do in fact, we double up for those three different areas just for that afternoon. So I think those are the things, if anyone asks me why they should come, it's about the variety.Kelly Molson: Regardless of size of your attraction as well. And actually, from my perspective as a supplier to the industry, it's just as valuable to come along and learn and understand what's going on in the sector. You don't have to be an attraction to come along and take part and be educated about what's happening in the sector. What about you, Ken? Ken Robinson: Well, I think that those of us who have stood on the stage at the QE II Centre and looked at the people who have come can see that there aren't any slumbering faces out there. There are people making notes, people nudging the person next to them, people looking round when we ask a question. We now have a sort of red and green card system for, do you agree? Don't you agree? Which we sometimes use, which is very interesting, engaging the mood of the room. And I think that the thing about VAC is don't be lazy if we're going to come to VAC. Don't be lazy. If you're coming to VAC, l And jot down what questions you might like to ask those people or what you'd like to learn from that session. Write it down, don't think you can remember it at the time. Ken Robinson: Bring it on a note with you when you come and then you will find, and we all know this, that the networking that happens at the end of the day and in the breaks at VAC it's like a family wedding in a way. I mean, everybody wants to talk to everybody else and it's so valuable. I think everybody who goes away from VAC should have a good few things that day, which they say, “I wouldn't have thought of that if I hadn't been there”, or even, “I disagree with that”, but it's made me realise what my true opinion about that is equally valuable. But don't be a lazy attendee. Come and participate, come and enjoy, come and learn, come and take back benefit to everybody that works with you. Kelly Molson: Yeah, I couldn't agree more. I think that thing about not being scared to ask questions is really valid as well, Ken, because this happened to me, actually. I went to one of the seminar sessions, and this is back in 2019 and was really inspired by one of the speakers about it was Julez Osbek, who was at Continuum Attractions at the time, and she talked about marketing segmentation, but had a completely different perspective on it in terms of not doing it demographically, just talking about age brackets and things like that. And it was really interesting. I didn't get a chance to ask a question during the seminar, but I found her afterwards and she was very approachable, very happy to answer my question. And then I stalked her on Twitter and got her to come on to the podcast afterwards to talk about it. Kelly Molson: But that's for me, what VAC is about. It's the openness that people are really willing to share. So don't be afraid to go and find the speaker that you've been inspired by and go and ask them the question afterwards, because everyone's really happy to talk about their topic and they're really happy to help people. That's my little key takeaway from it anyway. Right, so it's going to be on Thursday, the 5th October. This podcast episode is launching on the 20th September, so you haven't got long to go and get your tickets, so make sure you do. It is the 5th October, the QE II Conference Centre in Westminster. The website address is vacevents.com. That's Vacevents.com and you can get your ticket there. All of this information will be in the show notes, so don't worry if you didn't get time to scribble that down. Kelly Molson: While I've got you all, though, because you all are in the sector and you've got lots of insights to share. I want to know from each of you what you think that attractions should be focusing on and what 2024 might look like for the sector. Paul, what about you? Start with you. Paul Kelly: So I've been chatting to some of our operators. We have some very large operators around the UK asking them how it's going? And unsurprisingly, you could have said the same question 20 years ago, what's our biggest challenge? It's the weather. It's not actually the cost of living crisis, it's not COVID you can put plans together for those things and you can work on it, but the weather always is a little bit of a challenge. So this summer inverted commerce has been quite hard to focus on what we can deliver when the days have been half decent. Actually, we've done quite well, we always do relatively well, certainly in our sector, I'm sure the others will agree, in a recession. Paul Kelly: So the key seems to be, and I'm going to put it out, I haven't quite found the right words for it, but I'll develop this once I've spoken to a few more. What every attraction for me has to have is an opportunity for people to downgrade what they did slightly. What they're doing is they're ringing it up and saying, "Can't afford to do this, have you got something that's almost like that?" But whether it's a slightly different experience, less time, one day less so whatever the packages are that people are offering, there has to be one rung lower than it was before to still encourage people to come along because they're not able to reach the same heights at the moment that they did previously. But they still want to have that family experience that day out, create those memories. Paul Kelly: All of those things are still relevant. And if you don't have that opportunity, then they'll either go elsewhere or they won't go. So, again, it's managing. So I'm not talking about huge discounts, I'm talking about being relatively clever in what you package and what you put together to make sure they still attend and they still get what they perceive to be value for money. But unless you have that option then I think they won't come. Kelly Molson: Really great advice, Paul. Thank you. Bernard, what about you? Bernard Donoghue: Like Paul, actually, especially since Lockdown ended, but actually for about the last five or six years I've noticed a particular thing which is where visitor attractions have got reserves, and that's a big if by the way, particularly in the course of the last couple of years. Actually, especially since Lockdown ended, but actually for about the last five or six years I've noticed a particular thing which is where visitor attractions have got reserves, and that's a big if by the way, particularly in the course of the last couple of years. So it comes back to Paul's point about kind of ensuring yourself against the excesses of the weather and making sure that you're still particularly a family attractive visitor attractions that'd be one. Second is cost of living crisis, certainly for the average customer, but also the energy costs for visitor attractions too. Bernard Donoghue: Just crazy amounts of money that visitor attractions are now paying i If you're a zoo or an aquarium you can't turn down the temperature of your botanics you're a living reef. So we're going to have to find some way out of that. And that means that actually for many organisations it's going to be as financially challenging over the next twelve months as it has been over the last two. And then I think the third, and this is a continual for me and Kelly, you and I have talked about it before, but it forms the last session of the day at the VAC conference which is diversity and inclusivity. And my feeling is that every visitor attraction should be critically honest about who comes, who doesn't, why they don't come and what are you going to do about it?Bernard Donoghue: And in particular those organisations who in receipt are government money or public money or who had COVID loans from the UK taxpayer. If their visitors don't look like the community in which they're housed, they have a moral question at the heart of their business. That's it. If you want to take public money you need to have an audience that looks like the diversity of the public. And that's a challenge. I get that, I completely get that. But I think that making sure that we are as accessible in every conceivable way, economically, physically. Accessible to people and that they see their stories and themselves reflected in their collections and people and staff and volunteers and board members, I think that's the biggest challenge of the sector as it is indeed to many other sectors. Bernard Donoghue: But I think we're doing some amazing things and we need to shout about it and we need to share and we need to learn from each other. Kelly Molson: Absolutely agree. And that session is going to be a really great session. That's one not to miss. Ken? Ken Robinson: Well, I would say two things. First of all, as far as our visitors are concerned, I think there is a bigger polarisation now than there ever has been between those who have money and can still afford to do things and are not much impacted by the current circumstances, despite everything. And those who haven't and those who haven't have got to find ways of saving money, getting more for their money. There are so many things they can do that are free and alternatives that charged attractions find it difficult. I think we have to remember that the biggest number of attractions in the United Kingdom are heritage based attractions and they weren't purpose built like many of Paul's members, the attractions are purpose built for entertainment. But heritage attractions have got a bigger responsibility or museums housed in historic buildings. Ken Robinson: And all the time they're having to cut their costs and finding life difficult. Money isn't going into maintaining that National Heritage. And that's a real big long term challenge, one that government can't ignore. So government has a vested interest in the health of our businesses because the more healthy they are, the less will fall back on the state eventually. One last thing, I would like to mention Martin Evans and the tourism business. Ken Robinson: For the last I don't know how many years, Martin has been the person who has put together this event for us. He has to do the heavy lifting. He is backed up by our conference organisers, who are also very efficient. And the other person that I wouldn't like to miss from this, because if she could have been here today, you would have got a different flavour, is the wonderful Liz Terry and the support that her organisation. That's Liz's Organisation, her hard work in Leisure Media Group. She publishes Attractions Management magazine. Ken Robinson: She has never asked for anything from this conference and she gives it great support, without which we wouldn't have made 20 years, as I said earlier. And also a big shout and a screen for Liz. Kelly Molson: That is lovely. Thank you. I'm sure Liz will very much appreciate that. We won't forget her. Don't worry, she'll be on the credits for this podcast. I always ask our guests to leave us with a book recommendation for our listeners. So a book that you've loved, a book that you've enjoyed as part of your career growth can be absolutely anything. So, Paul, what would you like to share with us today? Paul Kelly: Oh, I tell you what, books are a bit highbrow for me. Yes, Bernard agrees with that. So I'm from the north, so I used to travel a lot when I was working North America. Commuting a little bit. So I did read a little bit then, but I very quickly swapped over to podcasts things that I download. I watch Silent Witness from the 90's, early 2000s repeatedly. I like Meet Marry Murder, which is one of the cable channels, so I'm quite simple. So I don't really have a book recommendation. I think when I have time to read, I will look forward to reading what somebody else recommends. Kelly Molson: Well, I will take Silent Witness as a recommendation because I love Silent Witness, Paul. Oh, so good. Never miss an episode, ever. So, OK, they go I mean, I can't give it away as a prize, but go and check out Silent Witness if you haven't. Bernard, what's yours? Bernard Donoghue: Well, I've been on this before and I remember my recommendation and it sounds really facile, but it was absolutely true, was Ladybird Books when I was a kid, and then that's how I got into history and heritage and storytelling and absolutely loved them. And I've still got loads of them, which is a bit sad, actually. I'm currently confined to home with a broken ankle. So I've been going through my big Bernard book of books, of all the ones that I haven't got around to reading, and the one that I've enjoyed most and has really surprised me is Lucy Worsley's biography of Agatha Christie. Absolutely fascinating. I thought I knew her. I thought I knew all about her. I know all of her characters, I've watched every conceivable film and TV program, but what a fascinating woman. Bernard Donoghue: So that's the one that I've loved this summer. Kelly Molson: Great recommendation. Yeah. I wondered what were going to get from you, actually, because you've had a lot of time on your hands to go through that book pile. Bernard Donoghue: It was either going to be Agatha Christie or the Argos catalogue. Honestly, it could have gone. Kelly Molson: It's not Christmas yet. You only do the Argos catalogue at Christmas. Ken, over to you for our last recommendation. Ken Robinson: Well, the best book quite hard to get hold of now, but I can supply copies is Action For Attractions, the National Policy Document, written in 2000. But if you want something other than that, then I have just finished reading a book which everyone else read years ago called Sapiens, which is about this thick, that's to say two and a half inches thick. For those of you listening. It's by somebody, I've just had to look him up because I couldn't have remembered it, by Yuval Noah Harari. And it's entitled A Brief History of Humankind. And what's so interesting about it is it goes through segments explaining the great moves that have happened to us humans since we appeared on this Earth. Ken Robinson: And I found the whole thing fascinating to read in one go what took me a long time, particularly the last bit, which talks about how commerce has changed the world and what we're all doing, and that's, after all, what we're doing at VAC. We are engaged in the kind of commerce that is to entertain, amuse and give enjoyment to our visitors, and at the same time keep the heritage of the country going and keep an awful lot of people employed, so I recommend Sapiens. Kelly Molson: Ken, that's a great book. It took me a really long time to read as well, but it is an absolutely fascinating book. I would totally back up your recommendation there. Have you read the next one as well, Homodeus? Ken Robinson: No one a year is enough for me. Kelly Molson: Well, I've got a toddler, so reading doesn't come easy for me right now. But Homodus is next on my list to read because that's the next one on from Sapiens and it's supposed to be a really good read as well. Right, listeners as ever, if you want to win a copy of Ken and Bernard's book, retweet this episode announcement with the words, I want the Vax books and you will be put into a prize drawer to win them. And also, do go and watch Silent Witness, Paul's recommendation, because it is blooming brilliant. I love it. Thank you all so much for coming on to join me today. I've really appreciated it. It's been a fascinating kind of deep dive into the Visitor Attractions Conference. I genuinely love this conference. It is one absolutely not to be missed. Kelly Molson: I mean, there might be a speaker called Kelly at this one. This is so I'll be there. Come and see me too. But no, thank you. It's been wonderful. As I said, we will put all of the info in the show notes. We'll put all of the connections to Paul, Ken and Bernard too. So if you've got any follow up questions that you want to ask them, I'm sure they'd be really happy to help. But it's vapevents.com. Go and grab your ticket now. Thank you, guys. Ken Robinson: And I have to tell you, Kelly, we are going to spend our time at our next committee meeting thinking of impossible questions for you for when you're speaking at VAC.Kelly Molson: Oh, God. Do it. I love impossible questions. Put me on the spot, Ken. I'll enjoy it. Kelly Molson: Thanks for listening to Skip the Queue. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review. It really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on Twitter for your chance to win the books that have been mentioned. Skip The Queue is brought to you by Rubber Cheese, a digital agency that builds remarkable systems and websites for attractions that helps them increase their visitor numbers. You can find show notes and transcriptions from this episode and more over on our website, rubbercheese.com/podcast. 

Meet Simon who left a 30 years career in finance to start a Jim's Mowing franchise. Simon is also a franchisor and has loads of great information to share about being a franchisee. To learn more call 131 546 or www.jimsmowing.com.au --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/jimsgroup/message

For this preview of Intelligence Squared's new podcast, VS, two cities with hundreds of years of history, much of it shared, and also decades of cultural rivalry go head to head. Joining VS this week to debate London VS New York are our guests who have called each location home for most of their lives. Simon Jenkins is a regular newspaper columnist and formerly editor of the London Evening Standard and The Times newspapers. He was once chairman of The National Trust, the UK's foremost heritage organisation, and he also wrote a book on his home city, A Short History of London. Anthony Scaramucci is a financier and founder of SkyBridge Capital. Also known as The Mooch, you may remember him as former White House Director of Communications for a record 11 days. He's been described by one newspaper as being "as New York as skyscrapers, subways and Sinatra". Coco Khan is our host making sure it's a fair contest but there can only be one winner – you the listeners decide – follow the link below to cast your vote. https://intelligencesquared.com/vs/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week: In his cover piece for the magazine, Andrew Roberts says that the British Army has been hollowed out by years of underfunding and a lack of foresight when it comes to replacing the munitions we have sent to Ukraine. Historian Antony Beevor and author Simon Jenkins join the podcast to discuss Britain's depleted military (01:04).  Also this week: do religion and politics mix?  In The Spectator Isabel Hardman asks why it is that only Christian politicians are forced to defend their beliefs. This is of course in light of the news this week that Kate Forbes's bid for SNP leadership may be derailed by her views on gay marriage. She is joined by former leader of the Liberal Democrats Tim Farron, who also writes for the magazine this week about his experience of – what Isabel calls – the secular inquisition (17:16).  And finally:  Christopher Howse writes about the transformative power of folk costume in his arts lead for The Spectator. He is joined by Mellany Robinson, project manager at the Museum of British Folklore and co-curator of the new exhibition Making Mischief: Folk Costume in Britain (27:55). Hosted by William Moore.  Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

This week: In his cover piece for the magazine, Andrew Roberts says that the British Army has been hollowed out by years of underfunding and a lack of foresight when it comes to replacing the munitions we have sent to Ukraine. Historian Antony Beevor and author Simon Jenkins join the podcast to discuss Britain's depleted military (01:04).  Also this week: do religion and politics mix?  In The Spectator Isabel Hardman asks why it is that only Christian politicians are forced to defend their beliefs. This is of course in light of the news this week that Kate Forbes's bid for SNP leadership may be derailed by her views on gay marriage. She is joined by former leader of the Liberal Democrats Tim Farron, who also writes for the magazine this week about his experience of – what Isabel calls – the secular inquisition (17:16).  And finally:  Christopher Howse writes about the transformative power of folk costume in his arts lead for The Spectator. He is joined by Mellany Robinson, project manager at the Museum of British Folklore and co-curator of the new exhibition Making Mischief: Folk Costume in Britain (27:55). Hosted by William Moore.  Produced by Oscar Edmondson.

Kriget om Falklandsöarna mellan Argentina och Storbritannien år 1982 var kriget som aldrig skulle ha utkämpats. Den negativa inrikespolitiska utvecklingen i militärdiktaturens Argentina samverkade med gamla anspråkskrav på Falklandsöarna – eller Malvinerna som de kallas på spanska.Argentinarna besatte ögruppen med militär. Storbritannien under Margaret Thatchers ledning antog utmaningen och sände en expeditionsstyrka för att utkämpa britternas måhända sista kolonialkrig. Men var det värt insatsen?Denna fråga och mycket mer diskuterar Martin Hårdstedt och Peter Bennesved i denna nymixade repris av avsnitt 30 av Militärhistoriepodden.Kriget på Falklandsöarna hade många drag som gör det unikt i flera avseenden. Argentinarnas närhet till krigsområdet gav dem en fördel. Dessutom var Argentina inte helt utan militär kapacitet. Både en relativt stor flotta och ett flygvapen att räkna med. Men att möta en motståndare med britternas kapacitet skulle visa sig vara katastrofalt. Det fanns redan på förhand en nivåskillnad i militär kompetens som argentinarna skulle ha tagit mer på allvar. Men kanske utgick de från att det aldrig skulle bli krig?Storbritannien förde krig på andra sidan jordklotet med en expeditionsflotta som i mycket stor utsträckning måste klara sig själv. Logistiskt var insatsen anmärkningsvärd. Uppgiften att hålla den ganska stora argentinska flottan på behörigt avstånd och undvika förluster på grund av det argentinska flygvapnets anfall var svår. Trots teknisk överlägsenhet och utbildning var inte framgången given på förhand. Två brigader skulle landsättas och ta sig an uppgiften att besegra en numerärt större motståndare som både hade haft god tid till förberedelser och som dessutom hade tunga vapen att försvara sina ställningar på höjderna kring Port Stanley. Frågan är vad som egentligen avgjorde kriget?Falklandskrigets slutstrider vid Goose Green och väster om Port Stanley blev infanteristrid med många brutala påminnelser om krigets nakna verklighet: att döda eller dödas. När det brittiska yrkesinfanteriet av marinkårssoldater, fallskärmsjägare och gardessoldater bröt in och brutalt rensade de argentinska ställningarna som hölls av i huvudsak illa ledda värnpliktiga kan det verka som att allt var givet på förhand. Men ingenting var självklart. Britterna kämpade med krigets friktioner vad gäller transporter, brist på understöd och vädret. Att numerärt underlägsna anfalla en fiende som har haft lång tid till förberedelser innebär förluster. Britterna förlorade i kriget 255 i döda och 775 skadades. Argentina miste 649 döda och 1 657 skadade.Om du vill läsa mer kan vi rekommendera den brittiske journalisten och författaren Max Hastings och Simon Jenkins bok som finns på svenska Slaget om Falklandsöarna. I övrigt återfinns en rad titlar om kriget på engelska som tar upp i stort sätt alla aspekter av konflikten. Martin Middlebrook The Falklands War är en som kan rekommenderas eller Duncan Andersson kortare The Falklands War 1982.Bild: Den argentinska kryssaren ARA General Belgrano har svår slagsida efter att ha attackerats av en brittisk ubåt under Falklandskonflikten. Den sjönk senare. WIkipedia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine last February the West has ramped up sanctions against Russia to an unprecedented level, but are the measures having the desired effect? On today's episode of The Sunday Debate the motion is: Sanctions against Russia won't work. For the motion we have Richard Connolly, Associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute and Simon Jenkins, journalist and author. And against the motion we were joined by Russia expert Owen Matthews - and historian and journalist, Anna Reid. Our host for the debate was broadcaster and academic, Philippa Thomas. Premium subscribers to Intelligence Squared can also access an extended audience Q&A with our panel as well as the final and deciding vote for this debate. ... Did you know that Intelligence Squared offers way more than podcasts? We've just launched a new online streaming platform Intelligence Squared+ and we'd love you to give it a go.  It's packed with more than 20 years' worth of video debates and conversations on the world's hottest topics. Tune in to live events, ask your questions or watch back on-demand totally ad-free with hours of discussion to dive into. The usual price is £14.99 a month, but we want to give our podcast listeners a special offer to try it out. For 10 days only, we're offering a subscription for only £10 a month. Offer ends at midnight GMT on Tuesday 20th December. Visit intelligencesquaredplus.com and use the discount code MONTH10 or ANNUAL10 to start watching today.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Jan 2013 a new church began in London - with singing, a sermon and a great sense of community - but for godless people. Atheist stand up comedian Sanderson Jones who co-founded "the Sunday Assembly" talked about its first meeting and why he set it up. David Robertson, at the time a church minister, asked questions about whether an "atheist church" makes sense and what Christians could learn from it. Justin was also joined by two of those who attended the first service, Rory Fenton and Simon Jenkins.   • Subscribe to the Unbelievable? podcast: https://pod.link/267142101 • More shows, free eBook & newsletter: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training-and-events • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate

They may have made it safely out of Africa.They may have food.but now the Israelites are thirsty.Here in the Book of Exodus, the people set out from the Desert of Sin, following wherever God leads them. With nothing to drink, they vent their frustration at Moses. Moses too is unhappy: he wishes that they would simply trust God and not test him by these outbursts of anger.Seriously worried that some of them might actually pick up rocks and hurl them at him, Moses begs God to throw him some kind of a lifeline. Credits:Written and produced by Chas BayfieldMusic by Michael Auld and Jon Hawkins MusicCover art by Lisa GoffChapters covered: Exodus 17-20The inspiration and information:All of the books and websites below have proven invaluable to putting together this book. Many of the books belong to my in-laws, Lesley and Geoff Tilley in Kingston, Tasmania where a large chunk of the Vible was pulled together. The NIV Zondervan Study Bible edited by D A Carson, Zondervan, 2017The Holy Bible Thompson Chain Reference Edition edited by Frank Charles Thompson, Hodder and Stoughton, 1986The NIV Study Bible edited by Kenneth Barker, Zondervan, 1984Life Application Study Bible edited by Dr Bruce B Barton, Kingsway, 2011Holy Bible NIV Version edited by Biblica, Hodder and Stoughton, 2011The New Compact Bible Dictionary by T Alton Bryant, Zondervan, 1987Unlocking the Bible by David Pawson, Collins, 2007The Lion Handbook to the Bible by David Alexander, Lion Hudson, 2009The New Bible Dictionary by J D Douglas, Tyndale House, 1982The Compact Bible Dictionary by Ronald Youngblood, Nelson, 2004The Bible Application Handbook by J I Packer and Derek Williams, Eagle, 2001 The Bible From Scratch by Simon Jenkins, Lion Hudson, 2009The World Jesus Knew by Anne Punton, Monarch, 2001I Never Knew That About Scotland by Christopher Winn, Ebury, 2007Trivia For the Toilet by Gavin Webster, Barnes and Noble, 2006 Biblegateway.orgGotquestions.orgQuora.comBiblecharts.orgLivescience.comInterestingliterature.comBiblicalarchaeology.orgAnswersingenesis.orgI am also hugely grateful for the pearls of wisdom shared by various speakers at events that I have attended and whose wisdom has helped me enormously, to the organisers of New Wine and Greenbelt Festival where I have been able to listen in and to wise and godly friends who have explained things in a language which I can understand. Thank you to:R T Kendall, former pastor at Westminster ChapelDr Jamie Davies, tutor in New Testament, Trinity College, BristolRev Stephen MacLean, pastor at Cricklewood Baptist ChurchMike Yaconelli (1942-2003), former pastor of Grace Community Church, Yreka CASteve Chalke, minister of Oasis Church, WaterlooNicky Gumbel, founder of the Alpha CourseCanon J John, founder of the Philo TrustJohn Grant, former moderator at the London Baptist AssociationTony and Brenda Lenthall, missionaries and friends.John Peters, Vicar of St Mary's Bryanston SquareTony Campolo, pastor and writer.Shane Claiborne, Christian ActivistSandy Millar, former vicar of Holy Trinity BromptonPeter Owen Jones, vicar, writer and broadcasterStuart Burgess, former Methodist chaplain to Birmingham UniversityRico Tice, Associate minister at All Souls Langham PlaceDamon and Sharron, missionariesJohn Griffiths, advertising strategist and Bible fanaticJon Leach, strategist and atheistKeith Van der S

Mishal Husain is joined by a panel of experts, as in front of an audience at BBC Broadcasting House, they consider what might lie ahead for King Charles III and examine the evolving role of the Royal Family. Joining Mishal for the Today Debate were BBC Special Correspondent James Naughtie; Lord Butler, who was the country's most senior civil servant for ten years from 1988; Margaret Macmillan emeritus professor of history at the University of Toronto and of international history at the University of Oxford; Tim Stanley, leader writer and columnist for the Daily Telegraph, an author of books on tradition and on American politics and history and Simon Jenkins, columnist for the Guardian and author of books on British history, landscape and architecture.

In this episode of Talking History, Patrick Geoghegan speaks with historian Dr Elaine Sisson about the forgotten star of Dublin's theatre scene, Daisy Bannard Cogley, following her profile in History Ireland; broadcaster Simon Jenkins discusses his new book on The Celts; and we journey through a thousand years of Russia's history with Orlando Figes.

Ahead of King Charles III being proclaimed King at the session council tomorrow morning, Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Simon Jenkins, author and columnist with The Guardian to discuss...

Jacob and his family have made a break for freedom from his uncle, Laban.Driving sheep goats and 11 children is a slow process, and after seven days, Laban and his men finally catch up with the fugitives. Jacob has no fighting men with him, just his wives, their handmaids and his children.Laban meanwhile has his sons and after seven days of chasing, the men's blood is up. Out of aces and needing to diffuse the situation with his furious in-laws, Jacob turns to face Laban.CreditsAll of the books and websites below have proven invaluable to putting together this book. Many of the books belong to my in-laws, Lesley and Geoff Tilley in Kingston, Tasmania where a large chunk of the Vible was pulled together.The NIV Zondervan Study Bible edited by D A Carson, Zondervan, 2017The Holy Bible Thompson Chain Reference Edition edited by Frank Charles Thompson, Hodder and Stoughton, 1986The NIV Study Bible edited by Kenneth Barker, Zondervan, 1984Life Application Study Bible edited by Dr Bruce B Barton, Kingsway, 2011Holy Bible NIV Version edited by Biblica, Hodder and Stoughton, 2011The New Compact Bible Dictionary by T Alton Bryant, Zondervan, 1987Unlocking the Bible by David Pawson, Collins, 2007The Lion Handbook to the Bible by David Alexander, Lion Hudson, 2009The New Bible Dictionary by J D Douglas, Tyndale House, 1982The Compact Bible Dictionary by Ronald Youngblood, Nelson, 2004The Bible Application Handbook by J I Packer and Derek Williams, Eagle, 2001 The Bible From Scratch by Simon Jenkins, Lion Hudson, 2009The World Jesus Knew by Anne Punton, Monarch, 2001I Never Knew That About Scotland by Christopher Winn, Ebury, 2007Trivia For the Toilet by Gavin Webster, Barnes and Noble, 2006 Biblegateway.orgGotquestions.orgQuora.comBiblecharts.orgLivescience.comInterestingliterature.comBiblicalarchaeology.orgAnswersingenesis.orgI am also hugely grateful for the pearls of wisdom shared by various speakers at events that I have attended and whose wisdom has helped me enormously, to the organisers of New Wine and Greenbelt Festival where I have been able to listen in and to wise and godly friends who have explained things in a language which I can understand. Thank you to: R T Kendall, former pastor at Westminster ChapelDr Jamie Davies, tutor in New Testament, Trinity College, BristolRev Stephen MacLean, pastor at Cricklewood Baptist ChurchMile Yaconelli (1942-2003), former pastor of Grace Community Church, Yreka CASteve Chalke, minister of Oasis Church, WaterlooNicky Gumbel, founder of the Alpha CourseCanon J John, founder of the Philo TrustJohn Grant, former moderator at the London Baptist AssociationTony and Brenda Lenthall, missionaries and friends.John Peters, Vicar of St Mary's Bryanston SquareTony Campolo, pastor and writer.Shane Claiborne, Christian ActivistSandy Millar, former vicar of Holy Trinity BromptonPeter Owen Jones, vicar, writer and broadcasterStuart Burgess, former Methodist chaplain to Birmingham UniversityRico Tice, Associate minister at All Souls Langham PlaceDamon and Sharron, missionariesJohn Griffiths, advertising strategist and Bible fanaticKeith Van der Shaw, minister of Bay Church, Blackman Bay, Tasmania.And the men in Andy Bosveld's shed. 

Housing, 50 Shades listeners, will know, is slap bang in the middle of the intersection between planning and politics and nothing offers both the illustration and impact of this than affordable housing. Research commissioned by the National Housing Federation and Crisis from Professor Glen Bramley at Heriot-Watt University in 2018 identified a need for 340,000 homes each year in England to 2031, including 145,000 affordable homes. According though to recent research from Turley and Tetlow King, commissioned by the LPDF, it is estimated that only 35,500 net additional affordable homes have been delivered on average in each of the last ten years. Delivery is especially poor in the country's largest urban centres. The largest 19, excluding London, have collectively added around 1,200 affordable homes per annum over the last ten years. Whether there is a housing crisis, or a challenge, or whether all of this is just a figment of the construction industry's imagination, will depend upon whether you ask a single parent in emergency accommodation, a politician in electioneering mode or Simon Jenkins. What is indisputable however is that the planning system has a huge role to play in all of this. Why are we where we are? What are the obstacles to delivering more affordable housing and how might they be overcome? Sam Stafford puts these questions to Antony Pollard, Head of Economics at Turley; Annie Gingell, Principal Planner at Tetlow King; and Marie Chadwick, Policy Leader at the National Housing Federation. Some accompanying reading. Housing supply requirements: low-income households & homeless people https://www.crisis.org.uk/ending-homelessness/homelessness-knowledge-hub/housing-models-and-access/housing-supply-requirements-across-great-britain-2018/  An Affordable Housing Emergency https://www.lpdf.co.uk/latest-publications Five things we learned from Homes England's Affordable Homes Programme data https://www.insidehousing.co.uk/insight/insight/five-things-we-learned-from-homes-englands-affordable-homes-programme-data-74347#:~:text=The%20Affordable%20Homes%20Programme%20is,of%20thousands%20of%20affordable%20homes Simon Jenkins plumbs new depths of housing nonsense https://capx.co/simon-jenkins-plumbs-new-depths-of-housing-nonsense/ People in housing need 2021 https://www.housing.org.uk/resources/people-in-housing-need-2021/ The damaging legacy of Right to Buy https://neweconomics.org/2022/05/the-damaging-legacy-of-right-to-buy Notes from the Green Belt: what's so very special about Colney Heath? https://www.planoraks.com/posts-1/notes-from-the-green-belt-whats-so-very-special-about-colney-heath Some accompanying listening. A House Is Not A Home - The Charlatans https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LljqVqRPiUI 50 Shades T-Shirts! If you have listened to Episode 45 of the 50 Shades of Planning Podcast you will have heard Clive Betts say that... 'In the Netherlands planning is seen as part of the solution. In the UK, too often, planning is seen as part of the problem'. Sam said in reply that that would look good on a t-shirt and it does. Further details can be found here: http://samuelstafford.blogspot.com/2021/07/50-shades-of-planning-t-shirts.html

1. Autoridades federales arrestaron a la exgobernadora Wanda Vázquez en lo que anticipa una nueva temporada de noticias intensas. 2. La EPA advierte a residentes de 19 estados y Puerto Rico sobre riesgos de cáncer por las operaciones de plantas de esterilización. La entidad le ha avisado a 23 plantas esterilizantes comerciales, incluyendo cuatro en la isla, que sus operaciones conllevan un elevado riesgo de cáncer y otras enfermedades. 3. “Estamos en proceso de cambiar significativamente el programa Vital”, dice el gobernador ante reclamo de profesionales de la salud. 4. Acusan a los líderes de una ganga que traficaba toneladas de cocaína en el área del Caribe. Transportaban millonarios cargamentos a Puerto Rico y República Dominicana provenientes de Colombia y Venezuela. 5. Denis Márquez reitera llamado para atender emergencia nacional por violencia infantil. El representante independentista anunció el pasado 28 de abril dos medidas para atender la problemática incluye que los Departamentos de la Familia y Justicia rindan cuentas a la Legislatura. 6. Los peajes aumentarán a partir del viernes solo con el 50% de lo que exigía el plan fiscal. El director ejecutivo de la Autoridad de Carreteras y Transportación, Edwin González Montalvo, dijo haber identificado ahorros que permitieron la reducción. 7. Gobernador dice cancelación de contrato con LUMA Energy no es como “apaga el ‘suiche'”. Contrario a expresiones de representante Luis Raúl Torres asegura la contratación es por 15 años. 8. Socio de J.R. Asphalt se declara culpable por pagar comisiones ilegales y sobornos al exalcalde de Cataño Félix “el Cano” Delgado. Mario Villegas ahora se expone a una sentencia máxima de cinco años en prisión. 9. Renuncian dos decanos de la Escuela de Medicina de Ciencias Médicas tras escándalo por trato preferencial a estudiante. Denunciaron una irregularidad por parte de la rectora por “obstaculizar” una determinación académica para favorecer a un estudiante por petición de sus padres. 10. The Guardian: Las acciones de Occidente en Ucrania y Taiwán podrían sumir al mundo en "una guerra global"La visita a Taipéi de la presidenta de la Cámara de Representantes de EE.UU., Nancy Pelosi, ha sido "descaradamente provocativa", afirmó el columnista Simon Jenkins. 11. ¿Las mujeres viven más que los hombres? Los científicos publican un nuevo estudio. En términos generales, se descubrió que la probabilidad de que un hombre sobreviva a una mujer de su misma edad está entre 25 % y 50 %, en dependencia de variables como la genética y los hábitos de cada persona. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/sandrarodriguezcotto/support

EU nations have agreed on a voluntary deal to save 15% of their gas usage to protect against further cuts in supplies from Russia - but will it work? We hear from Politico Europe's Suzanne Lynch on the scope of the deal. Amid daily power cuts, South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised to open up power generation to new private players, clear the state-owned company Eskom's debt, and make its energy greener. Chief economist at the Efficient Group in Pretoria, Dawie Roodt, explains how events came to this. And with the England playing Sweden in the semi-finals of the women's Euro 2022, we ask, Simon Jenkins, chief strategy officer for advertising agency VCCP Media, where the opportunities for both advertisers and the women's game may lie.

In a special programme following the resignation of Boris Johnson as Prime Minster of the UK, we hear from columnist, author and former foreign correspondent Jonathan Freedland, and journalist, author and former Editor of The Evening Standard and The Times, Simon Jenkins, about where the country is headed next. Our host for the discussion is award-winning journalist broadcaster Manveen Rana. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest in this week's book club podcast is Simon Jenkins. His new book The Celts: A Sceptical History tells the story of a race of people who, contrary to what many of us were taught in school, never existed at all. He tells me how and why “Celts” were invented, what it has meant and continues to mean for the nations of the Union, and where he thinks we need to go next…

My guest in this week's book club podcast is Simon Jenkins. His new book The Celts: A Sceptical History tells the story of a race of people who, contrary to what many of us were taught in school, never existed at all. He tells me how and why “celts” were invented, what it has meant and continues to mean for the nations of the Union, and where he thinks we need to go next…

Simon Jenkins considers the enigmatic story of the Celts, and asks whether any such people ever actually existed. Speaking with David Musgrove, he also questions what the term ‘Celtic' should mean to us today. (Ad) Simon Jenkins is the author of The Celts: A Sceptical History (Profile Books, 2022). Buy it now from Waterstones:https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthe-celts%2Fsimon-jenkins%2F9781788168809 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This is episode three and we're dealing with the period up to the invasion of the islands by the Argentinians on 2nd April 1982. Had it been a day earlier, most people across the world would have thought that the news was a horrendous April Food Joke – but it wasn't.  As we heard last episode, by 1971 negotiations between the British and the Argentinians had vascillated between good intentions and terrible breakdowns. Throughout the 1960s, the British were trying to figure out how to offload the Falklands without causing political condemnation at home. That changed by the 70s. The British were becoming more hesitant about the whole idea despite pressure from the United Nations and other international agencies. At the same time, the Argentinian right-wing dictatorship had made the Falklands Malvinas their main target to instigate international anger – and to placate their own citizens. Foreign Minister Costa Mendes was leading the communication – he vocal and urbane, and a devout Argentinian nationalist.The British parliament and then successive cabinets became instinctively hostile to Whitehall's determination to pursue negotiations. The technocrats just saw rising costs at a time of economic fragility, but politicians were equally uncomfortable throwing the 1800 Falklanders under an Argentinian bus. As Max Hastings and Simon Jenkins ask in their excellent book The Battle for the Falklands, why didn't the Foreign Office just simply give up? Instead they kept ploughing on, trying to find a negotiated solution. In January 1972 an Albatross flying boat landed off Port Stanley to commence a twice-monthly service to Comodoro Rivadavia – and soon, it was hoped, an airstrip would be hewn out of the heath. 350 Argentine tourists arrived onboard the first major cruise liner called the Libertad. That single visit emptied Port Stanley of its entire stock of souvenirs. All seemed swanky, but then the backsliding began and it began with the British.  Get bonus content on Patreon Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Banks, energy suppliers and oligarchs are just some of the targets that sanctions enforced by the West are looking to put pressure on in order to halt Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine. In this edition of The Sunday Debate, we ask how effective the financial freeze caused by sanctions can be in comparison to the potential impact of a fully fledged military intervention. Joining us is Bill Browder, Head of the Global Magnitsky Justice Campaign, and Guardian columnist Simon Jenkins. Chairing the debate is journalist and broadcaster Philippa Thomas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A trip to Paris wouldn't be the same without taking a moment to gaze up at the great looming towers of the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral with its watchful gargoyles on every corner. Today, celebrated journalist Simon Jenkins joins Dan to discuss 'humankind's greatest creation'; the cathedral. Simon has travelled across Europe - from Chartres to York, Cologne to Florence, Toledo to Moscow and Stockholm to Seville - to illuminate old stalwarts and highlight new discoveries. They compare favourites and share which ones they think are overrated. Simon's new book is called 'Europe's 100 Best Cathedrals'.Please vote for us! Dan Snow's History Hit has been nominated for a Podbible award in the 'informative' category: https://bit.ly/3pykkdsIf you'd like to learn more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts and audiobooks at History Hit - subscribe today! To download the History Hit app please go to the Android or Apple store. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

A trip to Paris wouldn't be the same without taking a moment to gaze up at the great looming towers of the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral with its watchful gargoyles on every corner. Today, celebrated journalist Simon Jenkins joins Dan to discuss 'humankind's greatest creation'; the cathedral. Simon has travelled across Europe - from Chartres to York, Cologne to Florence, Toledo to Moscow and Stockholm to Seville - to illuminate old stalwarts and highlight new discoveries. They compare favourites and share which ones they think are overrated. Simon's new book is called 'Europe's 100 Best Cathedrals'.Please vote for us! Dan Snow's History Hit has been nominated for a Podbible award in the 'informative' category: https://bit.ly/3pykkdsIf you'd like to learn more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts and audiobooks at History Hit - subscribe today! To download the History Hit app please go to the Android or Apple store. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Simon Jenkins is a Guardian columnist, broadcaster and author of several books including Europe's 100 Best Cathedrals and A Short History of England.Join our exclusive TRIGGERnometry community on Locals! https://triggernometry.locals.com/OR Support TRIGGERnometry Here:https://www.subscribestar.com/triggernometryhttps://www.patreon.com/triggerpodBitcoin: bc1qm6vvhduc6s3rvy8u76sllmrfpynfv94qw8p8d5Buy Merch Here:https://www.triggerpod.co.uk/shop/​​​Advertise on TRIGGERnometry:marketing@triggerpod.co.ukJoin the Mailing List:https://www.triggerpod.co.uk/sign-up/​​​Find TRIGGERnometry on Social Media: https://twitter.com/triggerpod​​​https://www.facebook.com/triggerpod​​​https://www.instagram.com/triggerpod​​​About TRIGGERnometry: Stand-up comedians Konstantin Kisin (@konstantinkisin) and Francis Foster (@francisjfoster) make sense of politics, economics, free speech, AI, drug policy and WW3 with the help of presidential advisors, renowned economists, award-winning journalists, controversial writers, leading scientists and notorious comedians.

Simon Jenkins chats with us about some of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe, what makes them such incredible feats of architecture, and the top cathedrals to see before you die!

With thousands of migrants stranded in freezing temperatures, we explore the humanitarian crisis unfolding on Poland's border with Belarus. Wojciech Wilk from the Polish Centre for International Aid gives the picture on the ground and journalist Jonathan Luxmoore explains local Church leaders' response. To mark Remembrance Day, our reporter Vishva Samani joins a group of British Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims as they uncover forgotten stories of sacrifice and valour from their own communities. Could the US President be banned from receiving Communion? Some Catholic Bishops are unhappy that Joe Biden, a practising Catholic, supports abortion rights and believe he and other Pro-Choice politicians should be denied the central sacrament of their Chuch. Will a new Church document agree? William explores the issue with Social Justice Campaigner Sister Simone Campbell and Ed Condon, Editor of the Catholic website ‘The Pillar'. FW. De Klerk was the last leader of apartheid South Africa and the man who freed Nelson Mandela from jail. Following his death this week, William asks if FW. De Klerk's personal faith can help us make sense of his complex story. We hear from Saul Dubow, Smuts Professor of Commonwealth History at Cambridge University and the Very Reverend Rogers Govender, Dean of Manchester Cathedral. And listeners share what makes their local Cathedral so special - from West Wales to Orkney - as we go on a journey through those magnificent structures that have withstood centuries and still provide focal points in times of national crisis and celebration. Simon Jenkins, Author of ‘Europe's 100 Best Cathedrals', shares his favourites too. Producers: Jill Collins and Louise Clarke-Rowbotham Editor: Helen Grady

In this week's episode: is Brexit to blame for the rise in blue-collar wages? With labour shortages driving wages up, many have blamed Britain's removal from the single market. However, this week in The Spectator, Matthew Lynn argues that shocks and price signals are how the free-market economy reorganises, and that we are experiencing a global trend just like America and Germany. Simon Jenkins, columnist for the Guardian, joins Matthew to discuss. (00:45) Also this week: the British Medical Association has dropped its opposition to assisted dying, but is euthanasia really a dignified and painless process? Dr Joel Zivot asks this question in The Spectator magazine, drawing upon his own experience as an expert witness against the use of lethal injection in America. Dr Jacky Davis, radiologist and chair of the Healthcare Professionals for Assisted Dying, disagrees. Davis, who pushed the motion causing the BMA to change its position, calls claims that assisted dying is a painful process 'unscientific shroud-waving', a claim she debates with Dr Zivot this week. (13:43) And finally, Non-Fungible Tokens are selling at extortionate prices online, and are proudly hanging on the virtual walls of many. But can they really be considered art? Jack Rivlin writes about his own experience of purchasing NFTs in this week's Spectator. He is joined by Nima Sagharachi, director of Middle Eastern, Islamic and South Asian Art at Bonhams. (30:20) Hosted by William Moore Produced by Sam Holmes and Oscar Edmondson

In this week's episode: is Brexit to blame for the rise in blue-collar wages? With labour shortages driving wages up, many have blamed Britain's removal from the single market. However, this week in The Spectator, Matthew Lynn argues that shocks and price signals are how the free-market economy reorganises, and that we are experiencing a global trend just like America and Germany. Simon Jenkins, columnist for the Guardian, joins Matthew to discuss. (00:45) Also this week: the British Medical Association has dropped its opposition to assisted dying, but is euthanasia really a dignified and painless process? Dr Joel Zivot asks this question in The Spectator magazine, drawing upon his own experience as an expert witness against the use of lethal injection in America. Dr Jacky Davis, radiologist and chair of the Healthcare Professionals for Assisted Dying, disagrees. Davis, who pushed the motion causing the BMA to change its position, calls claims that assisted dying is a painful process 'unscientific shroud-waving', a claim she debates with Dr Zivot this week. (13:43) And finally, Non-Fungible Tokens are selling at extortionate prices online, and are proudly hanging on the virtual walls of many. But can they really be considered art? Jack Rivlin writes about his own experience of purchasing NFTs in this week's Spectator. He is joined by Nima Sagharachi, director of Middle Eastern, Islamic and South Asian Art at Bonhams. (30:20) Hosted by William Moore Produced by Sam Holmes and Oscar Edmondson

Ein Ex-Polizist zieht sich in ein abgelegenes Fischerdorf zurück. Simon Jenkins hat seine Partnerin und Geliebte bei einem Einsatz verloren. Er selbst wurde schwer verletzt. Autor: WDR4-Do SK42 Studio AWS Moderator

Why is the National Trust in crisis, and can it be fixed? (00:55) Plus, is there going to be a ‘fake meat’ revolution? (14:15) And finally, should wedding readings stick to the classics or is it acceptable to go for something a bit more out there? (24:25) With Spectator columnist and former editor Charles Moore; Simon Jenkins, chair of National Trust between 2008 and 2014; Anthony Browne, a Conservative MP and chair of the Environment APPG; Olivia Potts, The Spectator’s vintage chef and co-host of our Table Talk podcast; writer Laura Freeman; and Revd Canon Dr Alison Joyce, rector of St Bride's church in London.Presented by Lara Prendergast.Produced by Sam Holmes, Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.

Why is the National Trust in crisis, and can it be fixed? (00:55) Plus, is there going to be a ‘fake meat' revolution? (14:15) And finally, should wedding readings stick to the classics or is it acceptable to go for something a bit more out there? (24:25) With Spectator columnist and former editor Charles Moore; Simon Jenkins, chair of National Trust between 2008 and 2014; Anthony Browne, a Conservative MP and chair of the Environment APPG; Olivia Potts, The Spectator's vintage chef and co-host of our Table Talk podcast; writer Laura Freeman; and Revd Canon Dr Alison Joyce, rector of St Bride's church in London.Presented by Lara Prendergast.Produced by Sam Holmes, Cindy Yu and Max Jeffery.

Henry VIII (1509-47) was described by historian Simon Jenkins as the ‘Hercules of English history – part tyrant, part polymath, part renaissance prince, who tore up the Plantagenet rulebook'. He was a prolific builder of English monarchy giving the nation a new identity, free from the shackles of Rome. His impact on religion, on government and on society was unprecedented, leaving a significant imprint on 21st century Britain. His countless iniquitous deeds, his disastrous marriages and the gratuitous purges of his foes and friends alike have done more to amalgamate his greatness than to tarnish is colossal legacy. CHARACTERS Henry VIII – King of England Catherine of Aragon – Queen of England Anne Boleyn – Queen of England Jane Seymour – Queen of England Anne of Cleves – Queen of England Catherine Howard – Queen of England Catherine Parr – Queen of England Henry VII – King of England (1485-1509), father of Henry VIII Elizabeth of York – Queen of England, mother of Henry VIII Prince Arthur – eldest son of Henry VII Mary - Queen of France, daughter of Henry VII Margaret Tudor – daughter of Henry VII, Queen of Scotland, wife of James IV Princess Mary – daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon Princess Elizabeth – daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn Prince Edward – son of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour Thomas Wolsey – Lord Chancellor Thomas More – Lord Chancellor Thomas Cromwell – Chancellor of the Exchequer Thomas Cranmer – Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Howard, duke of Norfolk – nobleman and uncle of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard Anthony Denny – Groom of the stool to Henry VIII Edmund Dudley and Richard Empson – financial agents of Henry VII Martin Luther – leading figure of the Protestant Reformation William Tyndale - leading figure of the Protestant Reformation Robert Aske – lawyer and leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace Margaret Pole – daughter of George, duke of Clarence Elizabeth Blount – mistress of Henry VIII Henry FitzRoy – illegitimate son of Henry VIII and Elizabeth Blount Mary Boleyn – mistress of Henry VIII and sister of Anne Thomas Culpeper – courtier of Henry VIII and associate of Catherine Howard Francis Dereham - courtier and associate of Catherine Howard Ferdinand II of Aragon – King of Aragon and Castile Charles V – Holy Roman Emperor Louis XII - King of France Francis I – King of France James IV – King of Scotland James V – King of Scotland Simon Jenkins – Historian Thomas Wyatt – contemporary politician Lord Mountjoy – contemporary Characters referenced from the past Edward III, King of England (1327-77) Henry V, King of England (1413-22) Edward IV, King of England (1461-70, 71-83) George, duke of Clarence – brother of Edward IV Thomas Becket – Archbishop of Canterbury under Henry II CREDITS John Dowland - The King of Denmark's galliard Tu es Petrus – Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina Roxis boy – chain rattling hinzebeat – plate with cutlery kyles – window small trailer rv glass smash with an axe debris fall metal grill bulbastre – wooden boat row water arthni – clothing rustle sagetyrtle – distant cheer inspector – fireworks distant b bockelsound – glas weinglas einschenken trinken abstellen craigsmith – r09-12 wooden thuds and slams 1skyland – walking on grass soundmary – wild horses running danmitch3ll – distant horns jergonda – hangmans rope black snow – sword slice 5 ensasz – wooden door smash open Jordishaw – stabbing sound Tim Kahn - footsteps

每日英語跟讀 Ep.K086: As Fox News Struggles at Home, Murdoch Brings Its Playbook to the U.K.   Beset by declining ratings, upheaval in its on-air ranks and a multibillion-dollar defamation suit related to its election coverage, Fox News is staggering out of the Trump era — blamed by many for seeding the poisonous political culture that brought a violent mob into the halls of the U.S. Capitol. 福斯新聞在美國收視率下降、電視節目團隊動盪，對總統大選的報導又被控誹謗而遭求償數十億美元，可謂身陷重圍，正踉蹌地走出川普時代。許多人指責福斯新聞催生有害的政治文化，致使暴民闖進美國國會大廈。 Yet in Britain, where television news is regulated to avoid political bias, Rupert Murdoch and a competing group of investors are seizing this moment to create two upstart news services that will challenge the BBC and other broadcasters by borrowing heavily from Murdoch's Fox playbook. 不過，在電視新聞依法應避免政治偏見的英國，梅鐸和一群與他競爭的投資人正抓住機會創設兩個新聞台，將大幅借用梅鐸旗下福斯新聞的套路，挑戰英國廣播公司（BBC）等電視台。 Though these ventures are in competition, they share Murdoch DNA.兩家媒體雖然互相競爭，卻都有梅鐸的DNA。 Murdoch's entrant, the less ambitious of the two, hopes to exploit what its executives see as a gap in the British market for edgy commentary and personality-driven programs. The rival venture — GB News, which has different backers but is stocked with veterans of the Murdoch empire — calculates there is an audience for a channel that rejects what it views as the left-leaning political correctness of the BBC. 梅鐸創辦的這家電視台，企圖心稍遜於對手，想主攻高層眼中英國市場欠缺的犀利評論和個人特質導向節目這個區塊。對手GB新聞的金主不同，卻有不少來自梅鐸帝國的老將。GB新聞的盤算是，英國一定有一群觀眾拒看他們認為是左傾政治正確的BBC。 “British news broadcasting is pretty much a one-party state,” said Andrew Neil, who is the chairman of GB News and will host a prime-time show. “They all come at stories from various shades of left.” GB新聞董事長、將主持一個黃金時段節目的尼爾說：「英國電視新聞界差不多就是個一黨制國家，從各種左派角度報導新聞。」 Pronouncements like that set off alarm bells for some British commentators. While Britain has long had a freewheeling, unabashedly partisan newspaper industry, critics say the last thing it needs after Brexit is a Fox-like news channel — one that could sow further divisions and open the door to the kinds of conspiracy theories nurtured by former President Donald Trump, and amplified by Fox. 與此類似的說法讓一些英國評論家心裡警鈴大作。批評者說，雖然英國報業向來不受拘束，且毫不遮掩地擁護各自支持的黨派，但英國脫歐後最不需要的就是福斯新聞這類頻道，因為這種頻道會使意見更加分歧，並使美國前總統川普煽動、福斯新聞強化的的陰謀論有機會滋生。 Last month, critics began an online campaign to pressure cellular carriers, banks and other advertisers to boycott GB News. 上個月，批評者展開網路宣傳，施壓行動通信業者、銀行等廣告業主，要求抵制GB新聞。 Neil struck back at what he called the “woke warriors,” pointing out that they were trying to cancel a channel that had yet to air a program. GB News, he said, would cover issues from the “center, perhaps the center right” — not the hard-right like Fox. Its shows will offer diverse voices and stick to facts, he insisted. 尼爾反擊這些他所謂的「覺醒戰士」，指出他們是要消滅一個還沒播放任何節目的頻道。他說，GB新聞將從「中間派，也許是中間偏右」的立場報導議題，不是像福斯新聞那樣的極右立場。尼爾強調，GB新聞的節目會涵蓋各種不同意見並忠於事實。 Even if these new services tilt to the right, some journalists say there is little to fear, so long as they avoid spreading false news. 有些媒體人說，即使這些新聞台右傾，只要不散播假消息，就沒什麼好怕的。 “It is at least plausible to argue that the BBC is seen as being institutionally left of center,” said Simon Jenkins, a columnist for The Guardian. “To that extent, it is plausible to say there is room for something that is right of center.” 英國衛報專欄作家詹金斯說：「說BBC是公認的中間偏左，至少是合理的，同樣，說有中間偏右媒體存在的空間，也是合理的。」Source article: https://udn.com/news/story/6904/5282939   通勤學英語15mins.Today榮獲 Apple Podcast 2020年十大熱門節目 KKBox 2020年十大Podcast風雲榜 (唯一語言學習Podcast) Himalaya 人氣票選播客總冠軍 每日英語跟讀Podcast，就在http://www.15mins.today/daily-shadowing 每週Vocab精選詞彙Podcast，就在https://www.15mins.today/vocab 每週In-TENSE文法練習Podcast，就在https://www.15mins.today/in-tense

Kriget om Falklandsöarna mellan Argentina och Storbritannien år 1982 var kriget som aldrig skulle ha utkämpats. Den negativa inrikespolitiska utvecklingen i militärdiktaturens Argentina samverkade med gamla anspråkskrav på Falklandsöarna – eller Malvinerna som de kallas på spanska. Argentinarna besatte ögruppen med militär. Storbritannien under Margaret Thatchers ledning antog utmaningen och sände en expeditionsstyrka för att utkämpa britternas måhända sista kolonialkrig. Men var det värt insatsen?Denna fråga och mycket mer diskuterar Martin Hårdstedt och Peter Bennesved i avsnitt 30 av Militärhistoriepodden.Kriget på Falklandsöarna hade många drag som gör det unikt i flera avseenden. Argentinarnas närhet till krigsområdet gav dem en fördel. Dessutom var Argentina inte helt utan militär kapacitet. Både en relativt stor flotta och ett flygvapen att räkna med. Men att möta en motståndare med britternas kapacitet skulle visa sig vara katastrofalt. Det fanns redan på förhand en nivåskillnad i militär kompetens som argentinarna skulle ha tagit mer på allvar. Men kanske utgick de från att det aldrig skulle bli krig?Storbritannien förde krig på andra sidan jordklotet med en expeditionsflotta som i mycket stor utsträckning måste klara sig själv. Logistiskt var insatsen anmärkningsvärd. Uppgiften att hålla den ganska stora argentinska flottan på behörigt avstånd och undvika förluster på grund av det argentinska flygvapnets anfall var svår. Trots teknisk överlägsenhet och utbildning var inte framgången given på förhand. Två brigader skulle landsättas och ta sig an uppgiften att besegra en numerärt större motståndare som både hade haft god tid till förberedelser och som dessutom hade tunga vapen att försvara sina ställningar på höjderna kring Port Stanley. Frågan är vad som egentligen avgjorde kriget?Falklandskrigets slutstrider vid Goose Green och väster om Port Stanley blev infanteristrid med många brutala påminnelser om krigets nakna verklighet: att döda eller dödas. När det brittiska yrkesinfanteriet av marinkårssoldater, fallskärmsjägare och gardessoldater bröt in och brutalt rensade de argentinska ställningarna som hölls av i huvudsak illa ledda värnpliktiga kan det verka som att allt var givet på förhand. Men ingenting var självklart. Britterna kämpade med krigets friktioner vad gäller transporter, brist på understöd och vädret. Att numerärt underlägsna anfalla en fiende som har haft lång tid till förberedelser innebär förluster. Britterna förlorade i kriget 255 i döda och 775 skadades. Argentina miste 649 döda och 1 657 skadade.Om du vill läsa mer kan vi rekommendera den brittiske journalisten och författaren Max Hastings och Simon Jenkins bok som finns på svenska Slaget om Falklandsöarna. I övrigt återfinns en rad titlar om kriget på engelska som tar upp i stort sätt alla aspekter av konflikten. Martin Middlebrook The Falklands War är en som kan rekommenderas eller Duncan Andersson kortare The Falklands War 1982.Bild: Den argentinska kryssaren ARA General Belgrano har svår slagsida efter att ha attackerats av en brittisk ubåt under Falklandskonflikten. Den sjönk senare. WIkipedia. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The fourth in the Netflix series of The Crown, written by Peter Morgan and starring Olivia Coleman as the Queen, has raised questions about its historical accuracy, including from Britain’s Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden. Award winning novelist Naomi Alderman and journalist Simon Jenkins discuss the controversy in the context of the number of recent dramas set in the very recent past about real people. The Royal Academy in London has reopened its doors and is preparing to show Tracey Emin/Edvard Munch: The Loneliness of the Soul, in which 25 of Emin’s works sit alongside a series of oils and watercolours by the Norwegian artist Emin has been in love with since she was 18, in a shared exploration of grief, loss and longing. Described as somewhere between Mad Men and Agatha Christie, ‘The Announcer’ launched on All 4 this week. TV presenter Christine Beauval crashes against the glass ceiling in 1960s France, as she tries to outrun sinister threats on her life. Hannah McGill reviews. Presenter: Kirsty Lang Producer: Hilary Dunn Studio Manager: Emma Harth

The Crown is "reality hijacked as propaganda," argues Guardian columnist Simon Jenkins.

Carlos Moedas dispensa grandes apresentações. Engenheiro de formação, é atualmente administrador da Fundação Gulbenkian e foi, até ao final do ano passado, comissário europeu com a pasta da Investigação, Ciência e Inovação, responsável pela gestão do maior programa de ciência do mundo (80 mil milhões de euros). Anteriormente, foi o responsável no governo de Passos Coelho pela coordenação do Programa de Ajustamento. Mas a carreira política veio só depois dos 40 anos - antes, teve uma carreira ligada à banca de investimento e investimento imobiliário. -> Apoie este projecto e faça parte da comunidade de mecenas do 45 Graus em: 45graus.parafuso.net/apoiar O pretexto para esta conversa foi o livro lançado pelo convidado já este ano (mesmo antes da pandemia), ‘Vento Suão - Portugal e a Europa’, um livro que reúne as crónicas semanais que publicou durante os anos de comissário. Sendo o autor dessas crónicas comissário europeu, uma espécie de ministro do governo da Europa, está longe de ser um observador imparcial da União Europeia, mas, ao mesmo tempo, alguém que tem uma perspectiva rara dos meandros da Europa e, em particular no caso do convidado, alguém que tem uma visão para o projecto europeu. Foi essa visão que tentei compreender -- e também desafiar, a partir da minha posição também de europeísta, mas um não tão optimista em relação ao estado actual e ao potencial real da UE.  Durante esta hora e picos de conversa, falámos sobre vários aspectos da Europa, mas acabámos por regressar sempre a dois, em particular: um deles é a forma como a governação da UE está organizada, num quadro institucional peculiar que gera lentidão e uma tensão permanente entre as instituições comunitárias, como a Comissão, e os vários governos nacionais (como se viu ainda recentemente na negociação do pacote de estímulo pós-pandemia; por agora, a tensão desvaneceu, mas as causas mantêm-se). O outro aspecto de que falámos é menos tangível mas é o que verdadeiramente (às vezes quase nos esquecemos) é a base de qualquer projecto de integração política: uma noção de comunidade. Neste caso, será que temos dado verdadeiramente passos para construir uma comunidade cívica à escala da Europa, para lá dos velhos Estados-nação?    No último trecho, tivemos ainda tempo para discutir a visão do convidado sobre o futuro, em particular sobre o impacto das alterações que o digital veio trazer, nomeadamente sobre nas democracias, que terão de se reinventar se querem sobreviver. É uma altura interessante para ter desta discussão, uma vez que pandemia (e também falamos disso) veio tornar ainda mais presentes estas tecnologias   Índice da conversa: Livro de crónicas do convidado: Vento Suão - Portugal e a Europa União Europeia Porque é importante a UE Livro: The Brussels Effect: How the European Union Rules the World Kindle Edition, de Anu Bradford California effect Tensão Comissão Europeia vs. Conselho  -> Continua a faltar uma ‘nação’ europeia? A crise do Euro  O efeito da pandemia Pascal Lamy Stefan Zweig - Appels aux Européens Os frugais Europa lidera no top 10% de artigos científicos mais citados -> Que melhorias institucionais são necessárias na UE? Regra da unanimidade  Spitzenkandidat -> O que explica porque algumas áreas da governação foram transferidas para a UE e outras não? As audições aos futuros comissários no Parlamento Europeu O futuro da democracia representativa na era digital Experiência em França, com cidadãos a participar em assembleias deliberativas O papel do digital na sociedade pós-pandemia Livros recomendados The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge, de Abraham Flexner Philippe Aghion Kishore Mahbubani Breve História da Europa, de Simon Jenkins   Esta conversa foi editada por: Martim Cunha Rego   Obrigado aos mecenas do podcast: Paulo Peralta, Nuno Costa, Miguel Marques, Filipe Bento Caires, Goncalo Murteira Machado Monteiro, Gustavo, Margarida Varela, Corto Lemos, Joana Faria Alves, Carlos Martins, Tiago Leite, Salvador Cunha, João Baltazar, Rui Oliveira Gomes, Miguel Vassalo, Francisco Delgado Gonçalo Matos, Bruno Heleno, Emanuel Gouveia, Isabel Oliveira, Ana Teresa Mota, Luís Costa, Sara Mesquita, João Bernardino, Manuel Martins, Ana Sousa Amorim, Andreia Esteves, José Jesus, Andre Oliveira, José Soveral, Galaró family, Diogo Sampaio Viana, Rafael Santos, Francisco Fonseca, João Nelas, Carmen Camacho, Tiago Queiroz, Ricardo Duarte, António Padilha, Rita Mateus, Daniel Correia, Tiago Neves Paixão, Joao Saro, Abilio Silva.  Joao Salvado, Vasco Sá Pinto, Mafalda Pratas, Rui Baldaia, Luis Quelhas Valente, Rui Carrilho, João Castanheira, Luis Marques, Joana Margarida Alves Martins, Tiago Pires, Francisco dos Santos, Francisco Arantes, João Raimundo, Renato Vasconcelos, Marta Baptista Coelho, Hugo Correia, Mariana Barosa, Miguel Palhas, Pedro Rebelo, Nuno Gonçalves, rodrigo brazão, Pedro, Vasco Lima, Tomás Félix, Duarte, José Galinha, José Oliveira Pratas, isosamep, João Moreira, Joao Pinto, Pedro alagoa, Francisco Aguiar, José Proença, Joao Diogo, Marco Coelho, João Diogo Silva, Jose Pedroso, João Crispim, Margarida Gonçalves, Miguel Lamela, Andrea Grosso, João Pinho, Abílio Mateus, Paulo dos Santos, Maria Oliveira, Sérgio Catalão, Luis Filipe, Jose António Moreira, João Barbosa, Fonsini, Maria Francisca Couto, Carlos Manuel Lopes de Magalhães Lima, Renato Mendes, Alexandre Freitas, Robertt, Tiago Costa da Rocha, Jorge Soares, Pedro Miguel Pereira Vieira, Cristiano Tavares, Francisco Santos, Pedro F. Finisterra, Antonio Albuquerque, Fernando Sousa, juu-san, joana antunes, Francisco Vasconcelos, Gabriela, Paulo Ferreira, MacacoQuitado - Twitter, Pedro Correia, Francisco López Bermúdez, Nuno Almeida, Carlos Silveira, Bruno Lamas, Francisco Manuel Reis, Diogo Rombo, Francisco Rocha, Nelson Poças, Fábio Mota, Diogo Silva, Patrícia Esquível, Inês Patrão, Luis Miguel da Silva Barbosa, Albino Ramos, Daniel Almeida, Salomé Afonso, Alberto Santos Silva, Ana Batista, Angela Martins, Luis Gomes, Miguel Mendes, Vítor Araújo, Gil Batista Marinho, Susana Ladeiro, Cesar Correia, Filipe Melo, Cheila Bhuralal, Ricardo Leitão, Vitor Filipe, João Bastos, Natália RIbeiro, André Balças, Bernardo Pimentel, Pedro Gaspar, Hugo Domingues   Bio: Carlos Moedas nasceu em Beja, em 1970. É licenciado em Engenharia Civil pelo Instituto Superior Técnico. Frequentou a École Nationale des Ponts et Chaussées de Paris. Em 1998, obteve um MBA – Master of Business Administration – na Universidade de Harvard. Iniciou a carreira no grupo Suez, em França, trabalhou vários anos em Londres e criou a sua própria empresa em Portugal. Em 2011, foi eleito deputado e tornou-se secretário de Estado adjunto do primeiro-ministro do XIX Governo Constitucional, com responsabilidade pela coordenação do Programa de Ajustamento. Em 2014, tornou-se o quinto português a exercer as funções de comissário europeu, tendo gerido o maior programa de ciência do mundo (80 mil milhões de euros). É o mais jovem membro da Academia de Engenharia de Portugal. É medalha de ouro da Ordem dos Engenheiros e membro honorário da Academia de Ciência Africana. Recebeu o doutoramento honoris causa em Direito pela Universidade de Cork, na Irlanda, e outro doutoramento honoris causa pela École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris. É hoje administrador executivo da Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian.

Welcome to our monthly What’s Going On round-up, brought to you by Virtual Not Distant Ltd. Today we discuss tech, the future of the office, the future of life and housing and work life balance, and an upcoming event. 3.29  Tech AI-Driven Accountability,  https://tldv.io/  “too long, didn’t view”, 12.20 The future of the office  UK office demand 'shifting to the suburbs' amid Covid-19 crisis,   The age of the office is over – the future lies in Britain's commuter towns | Simon Jenkins   MGM Resorts Rolls Out Ultimate Work-From-Vegas Package At Bellagio And ARIA 23.06 Work-life balance and boundaries Building Work-Life Boundaries in the WFH Era -  Microsoft Analyzed Data on Its Newly Remote Workforce - 37.15 Back to tech - well, email anyway, and a cool event: The Basecamp/Rework team built a new email app Hey,   Built to Last – Audio Conference for Brand Builders.   46.09 What’s going in the Virtual Not Distant community Rowena Hennigan (see episodes 215 and 244) and Sandra Thompson have set up RISE Emotional Intelligence - Brian Rhea has written The Manager’s Guide to Engaging Remote Employees, about engaging remote workers - do have a look, it’s really in depth and comprehensive. Lisette Sutherland’s Work Together Anywhere book is now in Japanese  Pilar has a workshop on planned spontaneity on the 3rd of September with Next Stage Radicals,  Pilar was also a recent guest on their own podcast, so that’s well worth a listen. The Visible Teamwork Guide will be published *very* soon - so do look out for that, more news asap, and the full book will follow. And finally, Pilar has a new newsletter to subscribe to, ‘Think, Write, Converse’ - sign up on her site, for a glimpse into Pilar’s mind!  

London is the motor to Britain's economy, so how can it rebuild after the pandemic? (00:55) How can the new Tory leader in Scotland, Douglas Ross, keep the United Kingdom together? (17:50) And why the looming conflict between India and China isn't in Kashmir, but rather in the Bay of Bengal. (29:33)  With economist Gerard Lyons; historian Simon Jenkins; The Spectator's Scotland editor Alex Massie; The Spectator's political editor James Forsyth; historian Francis Pike; and author Jonathan Ward.   Presented by Katy Balls.   Produced by Gus Carter and Max Jeffery.

London is the motor to Britain’s economy, so how can it rebuild after the pandemic? (00:55) How can the new Tory leader in Scotland, Douglas Ross, keep the United Kingdom together? (17:50) And why the looming conflict between India and China isn’t in Kashmir, but rather in the Bay of Bengal. (29:33)  With economist Gerard Lyons; historian Simon Jenkins; The Spectator’s Scotland editor Alex Massie; The Spectator’s political editor James Forsyth; historian Francis Pike; and author Jonathan Ward.   Presented by Katy Balls.   Produced by Gus Carter and Max Jeffery.

Easy-to-read quick little intro to England's history.

Danny Dorling, Professor of Geography at the University of Oxford and, according to Simon Jenkins in the Guardian, 'the geographer royal by appointment to the left', returned to the Bookshop to talk about his new book A Better Politics: How Government Can Make Us Happier (London Publishing Partnership). Dorling's book looks at the evidence for a successful politics that would promote happiness and health and suggests policies that take account of this evidence. Dorling was in conversation with Rupa Huq, Labour MP for Ealing Central and Acton, and Richard Wilkinson, co-author of The Spirit Level. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Jonathan Freedland and Peter Walker dissect the latest news from Westminster. Ayesha Hazarika and Andrew Gimson explore the future of opposition politics and Simon Jenkins brings us back through 20 years of London mayoral elections. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Simon Jenkins talks about his new BBC radio programme, Wales: A 20th-century Tragedy?, which explores the difficulties faced by the country in recent history, and offers some opinions on its future. Historyextra.com/podcast See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Libraries are centres of fun and learning - it's a bookworm's paradise. However, when CD stores and video shops have closed down everywhere, are libraries endangered? Are they under threat of becoming havens for free air conditioning and wi-fi? Joining me to discuss is children's author (notably of the Mr. Bambuckle's Remarkables series), former school teacher, and big kid Tim Harris.Tim shares about the importance of libraries, what happens when school libraries close down, and describes just how precious our libraries are.You can find Tim Harris on Instagram @timharrisbooks and on Twitter @timharrisbooks, and his latest book Toffle Towers: The Great River Race is out now. Read more about Tim at his website.The article discussed in this episode is 'Libraries are dying – but it’s not about the books' by Simon Jenkins at The Guardian.Thanks for listening to What Shall We Do About...?, it means a lot! If you enjoyed it, please hit 'subscribe' on Apple Podcasts, or 'follow' on Spotify. You can follow the show on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and if you have an idea for a topic for the show send an email to whatshallwedopod@gmail.com.What Shall We Do About...? is hosted by Sam Robinson, who is on Twitter @samsquareeyes.

Simon Jenkins is a journalist, author and chairman of the National Trust. He writes a column twice weekly for the Guardian and weekly for the London Evening Standard. He edited the Evening Standard and The Times, was political editor of The Economist, and worked on Country Life and The Sunday Times. He has served on the boards of British Rail, London Transport and the Museum of London, and was deputy chairman of English Heritage. His books have ranged across London, the press, Welsh architecture and British politics, and include England’s 1,000 Best Churches, England’s 1,000 Best Houses, A Short History of England, and England’s 100 Best Views. His latest book is A Short History of London: The Creation of a World Capital. @simonjenkins4 Stories from the 5x15 recorded at The Tabernacle on 18th November 2019. 5x15 brings together five outstanding individuals to tell of their lives, passions and inspirations. There are only two rules - no scripts and only 15 minutes each. Learn more about 5x15 events: 5x15stories.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/5x15stories Facebook: www.facebook.com/5x15stories Instagram: www.instagram.com/5x15stories

Dan talks to Sir Simon Jenkins about London, the settlement founded by the Romans, occupied by the Saxons, conquered by the Danes and ruled by the Normans. This changeful place became a medieval maze of alleys and courtyards, later to be chequered with grand estates of Georgian splendour. It swelled with industry and became the centre of the largest empire in history. And having risen from the rubble of the Blitz, it is now one of the greatest cities in the world.From the prehistoric occupants of the Thames Valley to the preoccupied commuters of today, Simon Jenkins brings together the key events, individuals and trends in London's history to create a matchless portrait of the capital. He masterfully explains the battles that determined how London was conceived and built - and especially the perennial conflict between money and power.Based in part on his experiences of and involvement in the events that shaped the post-war city, and with his trademark colour and authority, Jenkins shows above all how London has taken shape over more than two thousand years. Fascinating for locals and visitors alike, this is narrative history at its finest, from the most ardent protector of our heritage. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Dan talks to Sir Simon Jenkins about London, the settlement founded by the Romans, occupied by the Saxons, conquered by the Danes and ruled by the Normans. This changeful place became a medieval maze of alleys and courtyards, later to be chequered with grand estates of Georgian splendour. It swelled with industry and became the centre of the largest empire in history. And having risen from the rubble of the Blitz, it is now one of the greatest cities in the world.From the prehistoric occupants of the Thames Valley to the preoccupied commuters of today, Simon Jenkins brings together the key events, individuals and trends in London's history to create a matchless portrait of the capital. He masterfully explains the battles that determined how London was conceived and built - and especially the perennial conflict between money and power.Based in part on his experiences of and involvement in the events that shaped the post-war city, and with his trademark colour and authority, Jenkins shows above all how London has taken shape over more than two thousand years. Fascinating for locals and visitors alike, this is narrative history at its finest, from the most ardent protector of our heritage. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week we look forward to the trip to Stoke and MillwallWe have Stoke fan Simon Jenkins joining us for the low down on the PottersLatics news, IEC and Stanley Choi, Pie Gate, club news and much more

Author and historian Simon Jenkins talks to Josh Fehnert about how London came to look the way it does. Plus: Architectural historian Elain Harwood on the UK’s overlooked art deco buildings.

Simon Jenkins speaks at the Oldie Literary Lunch about the three traumas of London's history, how London was shaped by the free market and the city corporation and the importance of separating money from power.

Greetings! Welcome to another edition of the Book Club, this time Iain's chatting to Simon Jenkins, his book is 'A Short History of London: The Creation of a World Capital'. It's "Fascinating for locals and visitors alike, this is narrative history at its finest, from the most ardent protector of our heritage." If you enjoyed this podcast, make sure you check through the archive for one you may have missed or why not listen to For The Many, Iain's podcast with Jacqui Smith, Cross Question or the brand new podcast All Talk! Iain Dale Monday - Thursday, 7-10pm on LBC.

Who is protecting the rights of indigenous people in the Amazon? We hear from Kawá, an Amazonian tribesman living in the UK about how his tribe has been affected by the fires and Adriana Ramos from the The Instituto Socioambiental in Brazil. A group of Church of England bishops has issued an open letter on the prospect of a 'no-deal' Brexit and the need for national reconciliation. Rt Rev Paul Bayes, Bishop of Liverpool, tells us why the letter has been written. Quentin Letts, Church going member of the Church of England, and political sketch writer at The Times shares his concerns. Tim Farron, former leader of the Liberal Democrats, talks about his book, A Better Ambition. What’s it like to be a Muslim Policewoman in North Yorkshire? Uzma Amireddy is the Positive Action Co-ordinator for North Yorkshire Police. After the death of Sogyal Rinpoche, author of the Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, we explore his legacy with author Mary Finnigan, who wrote ‘Sex and Violence in Tibetan Buddhism - The Rise and Fall of Sogyal Rinpoche'. And it’s the 50th Anniversary of the Churches Conservation Trust. The charity is holding a debate asking: who is going to look after these buildings in the future? We visit All Souls church in Bolton, under the care of the Churches Conservation Trust, and hear from Simon Jenkins, a Trustee of the Trust, about what he thinks should happen to historic buildings. Producer: Louise Clarke-Rowbotham Editor: Amanda Hancox

Jonathan Dimbleby presents political debate from Wymondham High Academy in Norfolk

Sir Simon Jenkins was one of the first journalists to cast a questioning eye over the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. We were very lucky to be invited into Sir Simon's house where we have a very interesting discussion on the historical aspects of our drug laws and how they work in today's society. Writing for The Guardian and author of many books on history, it's fair to say that Simon is one of the country's most respected writers.We're joined by Neil Woods, former undercover drugs detective, author, and Chair of LEAP UK, and also JS Rafaeli, journalist and co-author of Good Cop, Bad War and Drug Wars.In this conversation we delve into the history and legacy of the 'drug war', how the US coerced Britain into this approach, and how the 'British system' was our preferred method of treating those who may suffer with heroin addiction - so what exactly is the British system? JS and Neil really do lend us a great deal of perspective in this conversation given their research for the book Drug Wars which provides an overview of how and why we've reached the place we have with regards to a harmful drugs policy.We say it every time... but this is truly a fascinating podcast! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to another Chapter of the Book Club, this week Iain chats to William Clegg, his book is 'Under the Wig: A Lawyer's Stories of Murder, Guilt and Innocence'. Jessica Douglas-Home, her book is William Simmonds: The Silent Heart of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Finally, Simon Jenkins, his book is A Short History of Europe: From Pericles to Putin. If you enjoyed this podcast, please join Iain Monday - Thursday, 7-10pm on LBC. https://www.iaindale.com

Author and journalist Simon Jenkins is joined by Professor Kathleen Burk to discuss his forthcoming Short History of Europe, which explores some of the key themes and milestones in the continent’s past See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Most people have a sacred space, a place which is special to them. It could be a beach, a mountain top, a building, even a sports ground - but why have they become 'sacred'? Many of the grandest sacred spaces have been created by the world's religions but what were their creators trying to achieve? Are there certain characteristics which define a sacred space and if so, are they still valid today To discuss sacred spaces, Professor Robert Beckford is joined by Ben Quash (Professor of Christianity and the Arts at King's College London), Karsan Vaghani (a Hindu Chaplain at Cardiff University) and Jon Cannon (author of 'The Secret Language of Sacred Spaces'). Robert also interviews Simon Jenkins (author of 'England's Cathedrals' and 'England's Thousand Best Churches'). Producer: Amanda Hancox.

Most people have a sacred space, a place which is special to them. It could be a beach, a mountain top, a building, even a sports ground - but why have they become 'sacred'? Many of the grandest sacred spaces have been created by the world's religions but what were their creators trying to achieve? Are there certain characteristics which define a sacred space and if so, are they still valid today To discuss sacred spaces, Professor Robert Beckford is joined by Ben Quash (Professor of Christianity and the Arts at King's College London), Karsan Vaghani (a Hindu Chaplain at Cardiff University) and Jon Cannon (author of 'The Secret Language of Sacred Spaces'). Robert also interviews Simon Jenkins (author of 'England's Cathedrals' and 'England's Thousand Best Churches'). Producer: Amanda Hancox.

The icy winds from the East have been an apt meteorological metaphor for UK-Russia relations. Since the Salisbury spy incident, and the immediate pointing of blame at the Kremlin, diplomats have been kicked out of both countries. But that's unlikely to be the end of the matter. All eyes are on what happens next. What would be the most moral course of action to take? Should the UK pursue the strongest possible sanctions and perhaps even refuse to compete in this year's World Cup in Russia? Some believe that unless we take a firm moral stand we put our own citizens at risk and we let down the Russian people. Others urge caution, believing sanctions will mostly hurt ordinary people and will do little to change the regime's behaviour. Aside from tit-for-tat punishment, it has been suggested that Putin's alleged antics with chemical weapons are bringing us closer to a "Cold War 2.0". After the Berlin Wall fell almost thirty years ago, we hoped for progress towards a more peaceful world. Was that a delusion? It could be argued that the world is more dangerous now than it was when power-blocs followed the rules of realpolitik, and everyone knew where they stood. Even then, we came perilously close to mutual destruction - so should we press on now with the search for a new and better kind of international moral order? Witnesses are Simon Jenkins, Dr Rebecca Johnson, Mark Rice-Oxley and Prof Robert Service. Producer: Dan Tierney.

Nicholas Shakespeare, the distinguished novelist, on Six Minutes in May. A talk on Chamberlain's downfall, Churchill's eventual accession to number 10, and with a brief look at what could have happened had events worked out differently. Harry Mount, our editor, also praised Shakespeare for his great modesty, 'bringing up the 16th century playwright and not admitting that they're related'. Peter Snow and Ann MacMillan, the husband-and-wife writerly pair, on War Stories: Gripping Tales of Courage, Cunning and Compassion. Cheerily and grippingly told: this book examines thirty-four previously untold stories of those who showed great humanity and heroism at a time of war. And, finally, Simon Jenkins, the esteemed journalist and chronicler of the British landscape, on the rituals, ceremonies and architecture of some of our most undervalued national treasures, in Britain's 100 Best Railway Stations.  The Oldie Literary Lunch is brought to you by Noble Caledonia - the world leaders in small ship cruising. For more info about the The Oldie and the lunches at Simpson's on The Strand: https://www.theoldie.co.uk/

Writer Bea Campbell, artist Scottee, historian Emma Griffin, journalist Simon Jenkins & economist Guy Standing join Philip Dodd to consider the working class in culture. The Precariat: The New Dangerous Class by Guy Standing is available now Scottee's Working Class Dinner Party is at Camden People's Theatre on 28 April as part of the Common People Festival from 17 to 28 April and his show Bravado continues to tour in April End of Equality by Beatrix Campbell is available now Emma Griffin's Liberty's Dawn: A People's History of the Industrial Revolution is out nowProducer: Debbie Kilbride

It used to be so easy. You left university, came to London and got yourself a flatshare in one of the cheaper areas: Notting Hill, Maida Vale or Highgate. Living was cheap and if it took you a while to find out what you really wanted to do with your life you could drift about a bit and get by. But now thanks to vast City bonuses and the influx of foreign billionaires, London house prices have soared beyond the reach of all but the seriously rich. Parts of Notting Hill and Kensington have become ‘buy to leave’ ghost towns, the houses boarded up and showing no signs of life. Shoreditch and Hackney, not long ago the hip new outposts for musicians and artists, are now home to well-paid professionals. And London is the worse for it. That’s the argument of those who worry that London is becoming too rich to be interesting. But is there any evidence that the city is growing bland? Quite the reverse. On any evening almost wherever you go London’s streets are abuzz with life. People here crave a communal experience and the city provides it with its 600 parks, thousands of pubs and dynamic cultural scene. There’s a dynamic between wealth and creativity that keeps London exciting. If you prefer greater egalitarianism and more cycle lanes, there’s always Stockholm. Joining us to discuss the question "Is London too rich to be interesting?" were rapper and poet Akala, journalist Tanya Gold, artist Gavin Turk, and author and journalist Simon Jenkins. The event was chaired by Kieran Long, senior curator of contemporary architecture, design and digital at the V&A. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Anne McElvoy looks at the style of the election campaign and how it's been reflected by political sketch writers with John Crace and Quentin Letts. As Common by DC Moore opens at London's National Theatre, Simon Jenkins and Jonathan Healey discuss the impact of the Enclosure Acts. New Generation Thinker Emma Butcher from the University of Hull marks 200 years since Branwell Brontë was born. The winner of this year's Pushkin House Russian Book Prize - Rosalind Blakesley - talks to Anne along with one of the judges, writer Charlotte Hobson.Rosalind Blakesley's prize-winning book is The Russian Canvas: Painting in Imperial Russia 1757-1881You can find more information about events including talks and guided walks for the Branwell Brontë anniversary at the Bronte Parsonage Museum and as part of the Bradford Lit Fest where a statue is being unveiled. https://www.bronte.org.uk/ https://www.bradfordlitfest.co.uk/ New Generation Thinkers is a scheme run by the BBC and the Arts and Humanities Research Council to find academics who can turn their ideas into radio and television. You can find more on the Free Thinking website. Producer: Torquil MacLeod

On Theresa May's stuttering campaign, Jeremy Corbyn's prospective premiership, and the dying art of handwriting. With James Forsyth, Tim Shipman, Nick Cohen, Katy Balls, David Butterfield and Simon Jenkins. Presented by Lara Prendergast.

Emily Buchanan presents a special Easter Sunday programme exploring the place of religion in rural communities. Emily visits a cattle auction in Yorkshire to examine the changing face of church ministry in the countryside. Rev Sarah Lunn, who is responsible for thirteen churches in Cumbria, explains how she's also helping with a shortage of GPs in the area. Bob Walker reports from the largely rural diocese of Lincoln, where three quarters of churches no longer have a regular weekly church service. The future of the thousands of listed rural Church of England buildings is debated by Bishop John Inge, lead bishop for cathedrals and church buildings, and Simon Jenkins, former chair of the National Trust. Bishop of Ripon, James Bell, and Professor of the Sociology of Religion, Linda Woodhead, consider the future of congregation-led church communities. And London vicar Marie-Elsa Bragg explains her spiritual connection to Cumbria, and how it inspired her first novel. Producer: Dan Tierney Series Producer: Amanda Hancox.

This week, Carl and the CVM boys discuss the sartorial elegance of scarves, Simon Jenkins discusses the Jumble Sale of the Apocalypse, and how do you pray for your kids?

This week, Carl and the CVM boys discuss the sartorial elegance of scarves, Simon Jenkins discusses the Jumble Sale of the Apocalypse, and how do you pray for your kids?

Simon Jenkins, Wendell Steavenson, and Paul Hilder join Tom Clark to discuss the fraying Union between England and Scotland, the reordering of London to favour the global elite, and the way that new digital campaigns are disrupting the old politics everywhere See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Why do they do it? Again and again, after every attack, our media react by giving the terrorists exactly what they want – maximum publicity. Of course, the public should be told that an atrocity has taken place. But each attack dominates the news for days at a stretch. The TV networks go into overdrive, flying out their journalists to the scene of the attack and saturating their airtime. All this plays into the hands of terrorist organisations, allowing their killers to be glorified in the eyes of their supporters. In addition, the wall-to-wall news coverage creates a climate of fear and fuels the more authoritarian and xenophobic strands of our politics. President Trump’s recent actions – banning refugees and appearing to reference fictional terrorist attacks in Sweden – might be seen as an inevitable consequence of this hysteria. We should get things into proportion. After all, you’re more likely to fatally slip in the shower than be killed in a terrorist attack. This is the line that was taken by former Times editor and Guardian columnist Simon Jenkins. He was joined by Fawaz Gerges, a prominent expert on ISIS and al-Qaeda who has extensively researched the historical roots of jihadi extremism on the ground in the Middle East. Gerges explained how the West has played into the narrative of terrorists by portraying them as an existential danger, rather than as mere common criminals. But for national security commentator Douglas Murray, the only way to defeat terrorism is to tackle it head on, speaking plainly about the true scale of the threat. The recent wave of attacks by ISIS was just the beginning, he argued. Over a thousand foreign fighters have recently returned from Syria to Europe, and are highly likely to pose a risk to our security. It’s vital that our media and authorities keep the public fully aware about the terrorist threat and encourage everyone to be vigilant. Honest reporting is absolutely crucial, especially when society itself is under attack. As for ISIS, how they are portrayed in the mainstream media is a matter of indifference to them – their publicity strategy is all about broadcasting their attacks on social media to an audience of millions, not headlines in the press. Does publicising terrorism play into the hands of the perpetrators or does it help keep us on the alert against further attack? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Patriarch Kirill is in the UK to mark 300 years of the Russian Orthodox church in Britain. However his audience with the Queen has been criticised by those who see him as an ally of President Putin at a fractious time for Anglo-Russian relations over Syria. Trevor Barnes reports. In Aleppo, Sister Annie Demerjian and her volunteers risk their lives as they deliver aid to the sick and elderly. She tells Edward how airstrikes make life there unbearable for those unable to leave. Within a year or so, the majority of Catholic Cardinals, who will elect the next Pope, are likely to have been appointed by Pope Francis. Veteran Vatican journalist Marco Politi tells Edward that recent appointments point towards a conclave composed of fewer traditionalists than ever before. Rahul Tandon reports on proposals by the Indian government to end the practice of triple talaq, which allows Muslim men to divorce their wives by saying "talaq" three times. Simon Jenkins has been on a tour of 53 Anglican and Catholic cathedrals. He tells Edward about his favourite buildings and how he went about ranking the cathedrals for his new guide, 'England's Cathedrals'. York Minster has the largest number of bells of any English Cathedral but this week it was announced they are to remain silent. Edward finds out why. While Donald Trump's campaign battles with allegations about his attitude towards women many high profile evangelicals have withdrawn their support. Sociologist Prof Tony Campolo and Jan Harper-Hayes from Republican Overseas give their views on whether evangelical Christians should continue to support Trump. Producers: Amanda Hancox Peter Everett Image: kremlin.ru.

Halford Mackinder Professor of Geography at Oxford University and, according to Simon Jenkins 'geographer royal by appointment to the left' was at the shop to present a new edition of his *Inequality and the 1%* (Verso), in conversation with Dawn Foster. 'Dorling asks questions about inequality that fast become unswervable,' wrote Zoë Williams in the *Guardian*. 'Can we afford the superrich? Can society prosper? Can we realize our potential?' See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On May 12th, before the dust had settled on the General Election, Intelligence Squared hosted a post-election dissection with pundits and politicians of all persuasions. They battled it out over what the outcome means for the future of British politics. Is it fair, for example, that a bunch of Scots who want to leave the Union should have so much sway over the rest of the country? Will a break-up of the Union be inevitable? How long will any minority government, reliant on querulous smaller parties, be able to survive? Are we hearing the death knell of the two-party political system? And if so, do we need fundamental reform of our electoral system? We were joined by constitutional expert Vernon Bogdanor, Labour MP Margaret Hodge, Conservative MP Jesse Norman and columnist and interviewer for The Times Alice Thomson. The event was chaired by columinst and author Simon Jenkins. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Two stories this week have raised questions about the relationship between the Royal family and the press. There's been extensive press coverage relating to allegations against Prince Andrew, with national newspapers running front page splashes and lengthy spreads, despite the allegations being unsubstantiated. Furthermore, there has also been controversy surrounding the postponement of a BBC documentary Reinventing the Royals. Andrea Catherwood speaks to the BBC's Royal Correspondent Peter Hunt about the events surrounding Andrew's story. She also hears from Roy Greenslade, Guardian columnist and professor of journalism at City University, about the press coverage, and from Ingrid Seward, royal biographer and editor of Majesty magazine, about how Buckingham palace have reacted.Three Al-Jazeera English journalists, Peter Greste, Mohamed Fahmy and Baher Mohamed, are to be retried but remain in jail, a year on from their original detention. The three were found guilty of spreading false news and supporting the now banned Muslim Brotherhood. So what can we expect from a retrial? Andrea speaks to Sue Turton, presenter and correspondent for Al Jazeera English.It is ten years since the Freedom of Information Act came into being - forcing official bodies to answer questions from the press and the public. More than 400,000 requests have been made, leading to exposes of MPs expenses to A&E ambulance delays. To discuss its impact Andrea is joined by Maurice Frankel, director of campaign for freedom of information; Heather Brooke, professor of journalism at City University and FOI campaigner, and journalist and author Simon Jenkins who is sceptical of total disclosure.Producer: Katy Takatsuki.

Our top 1% take 15% of all income. That’s the highest share of anywhere in Europe. Our bottom fifth are the poorest in Europe. In Inequality and the 1% (Verso) Danny Dorling (Halford Mackinder Professor of Geography of the School of Geography and the Environment of the University of Oxford, or, as Simon Jenkins more pithily put it, 'geographer royal by appointment to the left'), goes in pursuit of the latest research into how the lives and ideas of the richest 1 per cent affect the remaining 99 per cent of us. The findings are shocking. Inequality in the UK is increasing as more and more people are driven towards the poverty line, with profound implications for education, health and life expectancy. Danny Dorling joined us at the Bookshop in conversation with Kate Pickett, Professor of Epidemiology in the Department of Health Sciences at the University of York, and co-author (with Richard Wilkinson) of the ground-breaking The Spirit Level: Why More Equal Societies Almost Always Do Better. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tom Sutcliffe and guests Rosie Boycott, Simon Jenkins and Maria Delgado discuss the cultural highlights of the week, including The Riot Club based on Laura Wade's controversial stage play Posh and which fictionalised the riotous behaviour of Oxford's notorious Bullingdon Club, which David Cameron, George Osborne and Boris Johnson have all been members of. Enda Walsh's new play Ballyturk at the National Theatre has been compared to Samuel Beckett's Waiting For Godot and stars Cillan Murphy, Mikel Murfi and Stephen Rea. Mr Mac and Me is the 8th novel from Esther Freud, a blend of fact and fiction it recounts the time spent by the architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh in a small fishing village in Suffolk through the eyes of a 12 year old boy. Constable, the Making of a Master, is a new exhibition at London's V&A, which presents his work for the first time alongside the Old Masters whose work he copied so fastidiously, and also features the two version of his most famous painting, The Haywain, side by side. And The Driver, a new three part series on BBC One, starring David Morrissey and written by Danny Brocklehurst is the story of an ordinary man who - because of family mystery, frustration with his job and his life - makes a terrible decision.

This event was recorded at the Chalke Valley History Festival in July 2014. The future of the Union will be voted for in a referendum soon, and this debate explored the historical relationship between Scotland and England, and the direct bearing that has on the vote facing the Scots in a few days' time. The United Kingdom faces one of the biggest constitutional issues in its history, and our panel debated this most important of decisions. Proposing the motion were journalist and historian Simon Jenkins and Lecturer at the Department of History, Texas State University Bryan Glass. Opposing it were Liberal Democrat politician Sir Menzies Campbell and Secretatry of State for Education the Rt Hon Michael Gove. The debate was chaired by Editor of Prospect Magazine Bronwen Maddox. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In Jan 2013 a new church began in London - with singing, a sermon and a great sense of community - but its for godless people.  Atheist stand up comedian Sanderson Jones who co-founded "the Sunday Assembly" talks about its first meeting and why it exists. Scottish church minister David Robertson asks questions about whether an "atheist church" makes sense and what Christians could learn from it. Justin is also joined by two of those who attended the first service, Rory Fenton and Simon Jenkins. For more info on The Sunday Assembly www.sundayassembly.com For David Robertson http://solas-cpc.org For Rory Fenton http://roryfenton.com for Simon Jenkins http://simonjenkins.com Watch the video promo for Unbelievable? the Conference 2012 DVD http://youtu.be/6g-5jTMeZew Order it at http://www.premier.org.uk/dvd For more Christian/non-Christian debate visit http://www.premier.org.uk/unbelievable or get the MP3 podcast http://ondemand.premier.org.uk/unbelievable/AudioFeed.aspx or Via Itunes You may also enjoy: Unbelievable? 11 February 2012 - Should atheists be more religious? Alain de Botton & James Orr Unbelievable? 8th December 2012 - Does Christianity make emotional sense? Francis Spufford & Philip Pullman Join the conversation via Facebook and Twitter

Today the BBC Trust published a report by PwC into the BBC's failed Digital Media Initiative (DMI) technology project. Serious weaknesses were found in the management of the programme. Also, this week the Public Accounts Committee criticised a 'culture of cronyism' at the BBC for allowing excessive payouts to be made to some of its top departing executives. The journalist Simon Jenkins and Jean Seaton, Professor of Media History at the University of Westminster, discuss the culture and future governance of the BBC.The social sharing news and entertainment site BuzzFeed attracted more than 10 million unique UK users in November. The site is best known for its light-hearted collection of lists such as 'The 24 most important selfies' or 'The 12 most tenuous newspaper headlines about Kate Middleton in 2013'. Luke Lewis, UK Editor talks about BuzzFeed becoming a serious news player.The Danish public service broadcaster, DR, has enjoyed considerable success with The Killing and Borgen. Danish academic Dr Eva Novrup Redvall, author of a new book 'Writing and Producing Television Drama in Denmark', has spent time observing the writers' room for Borgen. She argues its success is due to the position of writers within the production culture. TV scriptwriter and author Anthony Horowitz, who is currently in production with a new series of Foyles War, talks about the writing process here in the UK.Producer: Dianne McGregor.

As Zimbabwe votes in favour of a new constitution, Anne McElvoy is joined by Albie Sachs, journalist Simon Jenkins human rights lawyer Chibli Mallat to examine whether national constitutions aid or impede democracy. In light of this week's cross-party deal on press regulation established by Royal Charter, Private Eye editor Ian Hislop and media expert James Curran offer contesting views on the State's relationship with the press. Susannah Clapp delivers a first night review of The Book of Mormon, the new musical from the creators of South Park. And Simon Morrison discusses Lina Prokofiev, the wife of the composer Sergei, who is the subject of his new biography.

Co-Chairs: Adrian Monck, World Economic Forum and Mary Ann Sieghart, The Independent 1. John Mitchinson, Unbound: ‘Why the Book is Sustainable’ 2. Bedwyr Williams, Multi-media Visual Artist: ‘There’s Methodist in My Madness’ 3. Simon Jenkins, The Guardian & London Evening Standard: ‘The Singular Lasting Charm of Portmeirion’

Steve discusses the changes to tabloids and the wider media since David Cameron announced the Leveson Inquiry in July, following the closure of the News of the World, with Simon Jenkins, George Brock, Claire Enders and Trevor Kavanagh. Simon Jenkins is a Guardian columnist and former Times and Evening Standard editor, Claire Enders is the founder of media consultants Enders Analysis, Prof George Brock is Head of Journalism at City University and Trevor Kavanagh is a Sun columnist and former political editor.The producer is Simon Tillotson.

Andrew Marr discusses the work of the 'Godfather' of new music Pierre Boulez. The French pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard explains the joy of his compositions, which are in a state of permanent revolution. The writer Peter Conrad pits Verdi against Wagner to ask whether it's possible to love both composers, or does taste, nationality and ideology still get in the way. With a very English temperament Simon Jenkins romps through the history of England in a bid to answer why the nation lost America, avoided a French revolution and gradually lost its world supremacy. And the Welsh National Poet, Gillian Clarke, talks about her country's literary heritage.Producer: Katy Hickman.

If Edwin Lutyens, the architect behind New Delhi, the Cenotaph, and the British embassy in Washington, sounds an austere, imperial figure then think again. He was fun and almost child-like - he loved to dance and doodle, and he told terrible jokes. But his great grand daughter, Jane Ridley, believes it was Lutyens' shockingly miserable marriage that inspired his greatest work. Simon Jenkins, former editor of The Times and current head of the National Trust, chooses Lutyens primarily for the quality of his work. But he also recognises that the grimness of the marriage - Emily Lutyens fell in love with Krishnamurti - spurred the architect onto greater heights. Presenter Matthew Parris initially questions whether the quality of Lutyens' sex life really needs to play a part in this tale, then declares himself underwhelmed by much of the work. Expert Jane Ridley is the author of the Architect and his Wife, and the producer is Miles Warde.

--{ Fear Used on the Compliant Confused: "Crisis Alarmists are On a Roll, Fear is Working, According to Poll, Facts Upon Lies and Maybes are Piled, Facts Themselves Present Flu as Mild, Crisis to be Used, No Missed Opportunity, On Generation Trained to Believe All Tomfoolery, Stampede the Herd, Get 'em to Move, With Conflicting Logic They Can't Prove, Must Believe in Their Inferiority, Submit to Superior Cerebral Authority, Fire! Fire! the Old Wolves are Shouting, Wolves Almost Masters, Tension Mounting" © Alan Watt }-- United Nations, World Government, Good Producer-Consumer Citizens - Bankers and Their Foundations - Environmental Agenda. Eugenics, Depopulation - Margaret Sanger - Reality Creators - Ted Turner, Jacques Cousteau, Prince Philip - Club of Rome "First Global Revolution" book - IPCC, Scary Scenarios (Lies). Crisis Creation - IMF, Planned Economic Crash, Redistribution of Wealth - Resource Takeover - UN Charter - Collectivism - Agenda 21. Swine Flu Hype (Common Flu), Mexico, Britain, Canada, Influenza - U.S. Hate Crime Bill - GMO Seed, Monsanto, New Farm Machinery - Global Warming Myths vs. Facts - WHO. Aerial Spraying, Toxicity, Asthma, Allergies, Lowered Immune System - Pandemic Lockdowns, School Drills - Media Overcoming Logic, Rule by Experts - Swine Flu Vaccination, Paralysis, Strokes. School Weapons Screening. (Articles: ["QUOTES FROM THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMUNITY" (peopleforwesternheritage.com).] ["Swine flu? A panic stoked in order to posture and spend" by Simon Jenkins (guardian.co.uk) - April 29, 2009.] ["13 swine flu cases confirmed in Canada, all mild" (cbc.ca) - April 28, 2009.] ["U.S. House passes "hate crime" bill that Bush opposed" by Thomas Ferraro (reuters.com) - April 29, 2009.] ["Genetically Modified Seeds: Monsanto is Putting Normal Seeds Out of Reach" by Linn Cohen-Cole (globalresearch.ca) - Feb. 14, 2009.] ["Global warming alarmists out in cold" by Andrew Bolt (news.com.au) - April 29, 2009.] ["Pupils welcoming weapons checks" by Alison Smith (news.bbc.co.uk) - April 29, 2009.]) *Title/Poem and Dialogue Copyrighted Alan Watt - April 30, 2009 (Exempting Music, Literary Quotes, and Callers' Comments)

Worldwide Martial Law, Identification, Monitoring - Dream of Tyrants has Materialized - No Personal Privacy - Reality Shows - Being "Anti-Social" and Having "Something to Hide". MI6, CIA, Supergovernment - For Your "Security" and "Safety" - Foundations. Indoctrination, Perpetual Education - One-Eyed Monster - TV Newscasters - Exposes. Arthur Koestler's "Ghost in the Machine" book. Council on Foreign Relations meetings, Property Taxation. Border and Airport Search and Seizure of Cell Phones, Computers, Electronic Devices - US Customs, Racial Profiling. Surveillance Cameras in Your Home, Big Brother of George Orwell. Mercury in Vaccines - Faith in Medicine - Early Children's Inoculations, Fevers, Inflammation, Lobotomy. Virtual Reality, Interfacing, Engrams, Programming - Pentagon's "Virtual World". Data Collection, Individual "Nodes", Simulations, Predictability - Online "Communities", Diaries. US Department of Homeland Security, Passport as "Travel Permit", Right to Return, USA No-Fly List - Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative - Clear Pass. New Nomads, Bureaucratic Class - The Millennium, Massive Change, New Type of Society - "World Service" - Destruction of Old Normals. Huxley's "Brave New World" - Ideal Design - Francis Bacon's "New Atlantis". Categories of Psychopathy - Politicians, Actors - Psychopathic Family Lineages. (Articles: "Britain is slithering down the road towards a police state" Simon Jenkins, The Guardian (guardian.co.uk) - Feb. 6, 2008. "Clarity Sought on Electronics Searches - U.S. Agents Seize Travelers' Devices" by Ellen Nakashima, Washington Post Staff Writer - Feb. 7, 2008 Page A01. "New travel document requirements for USA citizens" Edward Hasbrouck's The Practical Nomad blog (hasbrouck.org) - Jan. 25, 2008. ) *Dialogue Copyrighted Alan Watt - Feb. 7, 2008 (Exempting Music, Literary Quotes, and Callers' Comments)