The News Meeting

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has returned to Wembley Stadium for another five nights, which means she will have performed the show in London more than any other city in the world. Why does London mean so much to the self-styled Miss Americana?To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 How much energy do we use and where does it come from? To achieve net zero carbon emissions politicians will have to make some difficult decisions about how we power our lives and the economy. John and Rachel talk to Professor Dieter Helm, Britain’s leading energy economist, to get a sense of the scale of the challenge.Guest: Dieter Helm, professor of energy policy at New College, OxfordHosts: John Curtice and Rachel WolfTo find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about trendy@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why did Kyiv launch its surprise offensive and does it plan to hold onto the territory that it’s taken?To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rupert Murdoch’s vast media empire wields political power in the US and the UK. Now he’s locked in a bitter court case with his own children to ensure it remains right wing.To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

GPs in England are taking industrial action for the first time in 60 years. What are their demands and are they likely to be met?Correction: In a previous version of this podcast we said Wes Streeting had settled the pay dispute with junior doctors when in fact he made an offer, which is yet to be voted on by BMA members.To find out more about Tortoise:- Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalists- Subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and exclusive content- Become a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging discussion, Cat Neilan, a political editor, Stephen Armstrong, a seasoned reporter, and Caroline Lucas, former Green Party leader and author, dive into vital political shifts. They analyze Kamala Harris's rising prominence in key U.S. states and her appeal to independent voters. The trio debates the sustainability of the Olympics, advocating for a fossil-fuel-free event amidst corporate sponsorship issues. Lucas emphasizes a progressive vision for England, urging a reimagining of national identity to combat social division.

The podcast dives into the rise of a far-right figure in the UK and the chaos that ensued after their return to social media. It highlights how Elon Musk's controversial post spread disinformation, fuelling societal unrest. The challenges faced by the government in countering this misinformation reveal deep concerns about public discourse. Additionally, there's scrutiny of the UK government's response to Musk's management of X, questioning the effectiveness of existing regulations. Ethical responsibilities of social media platforms take center stage in this unfolding drama.

Simon Barnes, a seasoned sports writer covering the Paris Olympics, and Tom Heap, an author and presenter on Countryfile, join the discussion. The duo delves into Elon Musk's controversial social media remarks, emphasizing the risks of misinformation during civil unrest. They highlight Olympic moments that inspire, alongside challenges in balancing land use for energy versus agriculture. The conversation brings to light the need for innovative approaches to land management, showcasing how sports and environmental discussions intersect.

Akon, the renowned singer known for his ambitious vision to create a real-life Wakanda in Senegal, discusses his transformative project, Akon City. He outlines plans to integrate cutting-edge technology and cryptocurrency into this $6 billion development. However, delays and legal issues cast shadows over his vision. Akon confronts skepticism from the community and local leaders, raising questions about the project's sustainability and future. Can this dream city rise from its troubled beginnings?

Jill Rutter, a senior fellow at the Institute for Government and former civil servant, joins the hosts to unpack the political maneuvers of Keir Starmer's leadership. They discuss how new prime ministers shift government operations and examine Starmer's mission-led approach. The conversation highlights the ongoing complexities between civil servants and ministers, especially in the context of housing and criminal justice reforms. Rutter also shares insights into the Labour Party's public safety strategies and the challenges that lie ahead for the UK government.