The World Tonight BBC Radio 4
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- News
In depth reporting, intelligent analysis and major breaking news from a global perspective
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Michael Gove joins exodus of MPs
The Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove has announced he won't be defending his Surrey constituency in July's general election, ending a political career that's lasted almost 20 years. His departure is the latest in a mass exodus of MPs choosing to leave the Commons. We'll ask what Mr Gove's decision may reveal about Conservative morale.
Also on the programme:
The UN's top court has ruled Israel must "immediately halt its military offensive" in Rafah in southern Gaza. We get reaction from a senior Israeli MP.
And why do Chinese viewers appear so enarmoured of Clarkson's Farm? -
Party leaders hit the campaign trail
On the first full day of campaigning for the general election - party leaders have been road-testing their slogans. On a day of claims and counter-claims about immigration - we do some fact-checking - and reflect on the campaign with our political editor.
Also on the programme:
A rare report from inside military-controlled Myanmar - on the human cost of the rebel insurgency.
And, at the Chelsea Flower Show, a garden that helps torture victims cope with their trauma. -
Prime Minister surprises Westminster by calling summer election
In a wet and noisy Downing Street, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed the rumours that had been swirling since early morning and called a general election for 4th July. Despite being far behind in the polls, Sunak said the Conservatives are the only party with a plan to maintain economic stability. Welcoming the election announcement, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said it was time to "stop the chaos" and vote for change. We speak to people around the country: MPs, the shadow cabinet, grassroots party activists and voters.
Also, as former Chief Executive of the Post Office Paula Vennells gave an at times tearful testimony to the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry, we hear from one of those she apologised to, Lord Arbuthnot, who as an MP campaigned on behalf of subpostmasters. -
British man died during severe turbulence on flight named
73-year-old Geoff Kitchen died of a suspected heart attack during the flight from London to Singapore. Is flight turbulence getting worse? We’ll hear a former airline pilot.
Also in the programme:
Tory MP Craig Mackinlay breaks his silence after losing his hands and feet to sepsis; and how the greater spotted eagle's travel and breeding habits are being affected by the war in Ukraine? -
'Day of shame' says Prime Minister as he apologises to infected blood scandal victims
"On behalf of this and every government stretching back to the 1970s, I am truly sorry." These were the words of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as he responded to the publication of the Infected Blood Inquiry's final report. Sir Brian Langstaff, chair of the inquiry, found the authorities exposed people to unacceptable risks in administering tainted blood products, and at times covered up the scandal.
In Israel even some leaders opposed to him have responded angrily to the news that the International Criminal Court is seeking an arrest warrant for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The ICC is also seeking warrants for Defence Minister Yoav Gallant and for three Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes carried out during the Gaza conflict.
And when a group of Irish primary school kids recording a drum and bass track for fun, they'd no idea it would go viral online.